Fox Valley Christmas lights switch-on event attracts huge crowd as festive fever spreads
Fox Valley’s Christmas lights switch-on event attracted huge crowds as festive fever spreads in Sheffield.
Shopping centre bosses had to hold the event two days later than planned on Sunday, November 16 due to Storm Claudia.
But the event proved to be one of the most successful switch-on events in recent years - proudly sponsored by Bloor Homes.
A festive market, running from 2pm–6pm, featured more than 30 traders offering handmade gifts, crafts and food-to-go.
Crowds enjoyed treats from L’Taurusweet, The Taco Trailer, Greedy Greek Deli, Istabul’s Kitchen, Nelly’s Fudge, Bradfield Brewery, Fancy Filly Bar, Mangiamo Street Kitchen and King Floss, alongside gifting favourites Rose Designs, Gifts of Love and Merry & Bright.
Live entertainment included displays from Dance Dynamique and Branching Out Dancing, followed by a msic set from Graham Lindley.
At 4.30pm, the crowd gathered for the highlight of the afternoon: the official lights switch-on.
Bloor Community Champion, Leah Walton, took to the performance area alongside special guest Jane Jubb from Bloor Homes at Wharncliffe Park in Deepcar to lead the countdown and illuminate Fox Valley’s stunning festive display.
At just 13, Leah has already raised over £60,000 for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity and Solving Kids Cancer.
The switch-on revealed the centre’s spectacular decorations, including the towering 8-metre illuminated reindeer, traditional Christmas tree and twinkling lights throughout the centre. The magical moment was followed by an unforgettable high-energy performance from the internationally renowned Spark! drummers, who lit up the evening with their illuminated show.
Claire Biltcliffe, Centre Manager at Fox Valley, said: “After Storm Claudia forced us to postpone on Friday, we were absolutely thrilled to welcome such a fantastic turnout on Sunday.
“The atmosphere was incredible - our visitors truly brought the festive spirit with them. From our wonderful entertainers to the dazzling Spark! drummers and our inspiring Community Champion Leah Walton, it was a truly special event.
“We’re hugely grateful to Bloor Homes for their continued support in helping us create such memorable moments for our community.”
Jane Jubb, representing Bloor Homes at Wharncliffe Park in Deepcar, added: “It was an honour to support this year’s Christmas lights switch-on and to join Leah in leading such a joyful countdown. Seeing so many people come together after the rescheduled date really shows the strength and spirit of this community. We’re proud to be part of it as we continue developing Wharncliffe Park.”
For updates and details of all events at Fox Valley visit www.foxvalleysheffield.co.uk