An events company has been selected to kick off the festive period this Christmas time in Midsomer Norton, at a cost of £6,000.
Midsomer Norton Town Council delegated authority to their Town Clerk to appoint a preferred provider for the planning, promotion and delivery of the Christmas Lights Switch-On.
South West event management specialists, Diverse Events CIC were chosen for the event on Thursday, November 26 which will mark the beginning of town’s festive season.
Running from 4.30pm to 7.30pm, “Light Up Midsomer Norton” promises an evening of festive cheer, family fun, and community spirit in the heart of Midsomer Norton.
Diverse Events CIC host a range of events around the South West including throughout Devon and Cornwall, working collaboratively with community groups and volunteers to deliver award-winning community fairs and festivals.
To make the celebration bigger and more welcoming than ever, they plan plans to close the High Street to traffic, transforming the town centre into a safe, pedestrianised Christmas wonderland featuring a street market, seasonal entertainment, and local trading.
While the full event lineup and performance timetable revealed in the coming weeks, organisers are making a strong call for local involvement to ensure the evening is truly community-led.
Director at Diverse Events CIC, Aaron Monk, said: “We are thrilled to be working alongside Midsomer Norton Town Council to deliver this year's Christmas Lights Switch-On.
“This event is all about celebrating Midsomer Norton and giving residents of all ages a wonderful start to the Christmas season.
“Closing the High Street will allow us to create a vibrant street market and a safe space for families to gather.
"We want local businesses, groups, and performers to be at the very heart of the celebration, and we encourage anyone interested in taking part to reach out now.”
Local craft makers, food vendors, High Street shopkeepers, school groups, charities, and performers are all invited to play a role in making the night a success.
A spokesperson for the town council said: “Midsomer Norton Town Council is delighted to be working with Diverse Events CIC to deliver this year's Christmas Lights Switch-On on Thursday November, 26.
“Diverse Events CIC brings considerable experience in organising community celebrations, including Christmas lights switch-ons, festivals and town centre events across the South West.
“Their involvement in established events demonstrates their understanding of the planning, coordination and community engagement required to deliver occasions of this nature.
“The Council selected Diverse Events following consideration of the proposals received, with their relevant experience, the quality of their offering and the overall value for money presented being key factors in the decision.
“As a Community Interest Company, their commitment to bringing communities together and supporting local businesses, traders and performers also aligns well with the Council's ambitions for the event.
“The Christmas Lights Switch-On is an important occasion in Midsomer Norton's calendar, and we look forward to working with Diverse Events to deliver an enjoyable and memorable celebration for residents, local businesses and visitors alike.”