An unprecedented number of people gathered this evening, Friday 28th November, to see Bournemouth transformed into an enchanting Christmas spectacle, with a procession into the Lower Gardens and a dazzling firework display marking the eagerly awaited launch of the Gardens of Light.
Together with Santa and the stars of Bournemouth Pavilion’s panto, Peter Pan, hundreds of families and children were pleasantly surprised by an official opening ceremony in the Lower Gardens at the ice rink – supported this year by Wave 105 and their charity, Cash for Kids.
Santa, with help from Wave 105’s Simon Clarke, counted down to the launch as an impressive firework display illuminated the gardens.
Lisa Tucker, Chair of the Town Centre Business Improvement District (BID) who are responsible for providing Bournemouth with the Gardens of Light festival, said: “The launch event was a new concept this year with a procession and a pyrotechnics and fire show. It’s great that so many people got behind it, celebrating the start of the festive season in Bournemouth. There are so many people to thank, especially those who took the time to join the procession. The success of the Gardens of Light is testament to the hard work and commitment of the residents, businesses and supporters of Bournemouth. It’s a true reflection of what we can achieve together.”
After the launch, members of the public were entertained in the gardens by a fire act and performers on the ice, including a Michael Bublé tribute and characters from hit movie, Frozen.
Coleen Gallagher and Cheryl Atkinson, who watched the launch, said: “It was a really lovely event, with lots of community spirit. The free glow-in-the-dark stuff looked great! It was a super way to start Christmas and we hope this happens every year!”
The Gardens of Light runs in Bournemouth’s Lower Gardens throughout the Christmas period from 28th November to 4th January, and features the award-winning Light Pods – traditional beach hut frames fitted with a variety of interactive experiences that are free to explore and enjoy. As well as the ice rink, complete with café bar, the bandstand is home to a stunning Santa’s Grotto.
For details of all attractions, including booking options, prices and opening times, visit makeitbournemouth.co.uk.