Ilkley came together for a magical Christmas lights switch on at the weekend.
Ilkley Town Council says it is 'delighted' with the 'tremendous success' of the Christmas event on Saturday, which saw large numbers of residents and visitors come together to celebrate the start of the festive season.
A spokesperson for Ilkley Town Council [ITC] said:
"The event was filled with joy, community spirit, and a spectacular lantern parade that lit up the town centre.
"This year’s gathering was one of the most vibrant yet, and we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to making the occasion so special."
[Love Pop Choir]
ITC would like to offer, in no particular order, its sincere thanks to:
-
Everyone who came along to celebrate with us and helped create such a wonderful atmosphere.
-
All the children, families, and schools who poured hours of creativity into making lanterns for the parade.
-
Cecil Green Arts and Banda Na Rua for bringing rhythm, colour, and energy to the procession.
-
The talented local performers who took to the stage with enthusiasm and spirit.
-
Ilkley Bandstand Committee for their invaluable support.
-
Everyone at Christchurch for their assistance and warm hospitality.
-
Isabel Ashman, Ilkley’s excellent Town Crier, for lending her voice to the celebrations.
-
Bradford Markets and the stallholders for helping create a festive marketplace.
-
Your Ilkley Radio for their continued support and coverage.
-
All the volunteers who helped to make the event a success, including David Shaw MBE and all involved with Ilkley Community Network, including volunteers from Ilkley Carnival, Rotary Club of Ilkley Wharfedale, Rotary Ilkley Forward, and Ilkley Pride and Diversity Group.
-
Particular thanks to Tom and George for everything they did on the day
-
And of course, Father Christmas and his elves, who switched on the lights and brought magic, smiles, and excitement to the entire event.
Councillor Jane Gibson, Ilkley Town Mayor said:
“We were delighted to see so many people, old and young, at Saturday's Christmas Lights turn on. The lanterns shone brilliantly in the night. Santa was thrilled to see so many families getting excited for Christmas.
"A big thank you to all who worked to make the event so successful! I wish you all a happy festive season.”
If you missed or want to relive the event, Your Ilkley Radio was there!
There are more videos from the event on the Your Ilkley Facebook page.
Dates confirmed for the 2026 Lexus Ilkley Open
One of the "Seven Wonders of the World" on our doorstep
Questions raised over Ilkley 20mph scheme validity
Passenger Transport Services (PTS) will not operate tomorrow due to weather warnings
Council launches major consultation on housing
Appeal after stolen van in Ilkley
Storm Goretti: Yellow weather warning for snow in Ilkley
Acquisition will enhance Ilkley based SmartSearch services
New Cancer Support Group for Ilkley
Almost 200 Airedale Hospital workers to go on strike over pensions
Ilkley Colts stand out in new kit thanks to sponsors
New Ilkley English tutoring service helps students thrive
Changes to parking charges in Ilkley Town Centre
Retrospective "amphitheatre" plans by Burley Oaks
When the weather turns, turn to Your Ilkley
Entries to 2026 Ilkley Business Awards close on Friday
Help to navigating NHS and healthcare apps
Bus service diversions due to road closure near Bolton Abbey
Outside the Box joins Tinker Gallery for Printastic
Brand new local voucher platform set to launch next month
