This coming Friday sees Liverpool ONE launch its Christmas countdown with a lights switch-on and an evening of activities. Tony McDonough reports
Liverpool ONE will get its festive season under way on Friday, November 11, with an illuminated evening of activities.
Starting at 4pm the celebrations will offer an array of on-theme activities, acts, glowing Christmas decorations, a never-before-seen neon Christmas tree and many other neon installations.
A new, larger than life neon Christmas tree, will be situated at the centre of the ski holiday-inspired Liverpool Alpine Village on Chavasse Park. This will stand 18 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest artificial trees in the UK.
It will replace the long established “love heart” Christmas tree on Paradise Street. This will now be the location for a series of eight-metre neon trees.
From karaoke hüttes, curling and shuffle boarding, to prosecco pong and even wreath making, The Alpine Village has festive family events covered for the rest of the season.
During the launch night, there will also be an array of panto-magic performances of much-loved family favourites on South John Street These include M&S Bank Arena’s Aladdin and Epstein Theatre’s performance of Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
Christmas classics such as A Christmas Carol will be performed by Shakespeare North Playhouse, along with RAWD performances from Unity Theatre. The launch often sees celebrities appearing throughout the night.
There will also be performances from the dancers of The Hammond School, SingMe Merseyside, Pop Vox and Liverpool Indie Choirs. A festive piano singalong will be led by Santa and Mrs Claus by the entrance of ODEON.
Donna Howitt, place strategy director at Liverpool ONE, said: “Christmas is always a special time here at Liverpool ONE. We’re excited to be launching the holiday season with a packed night of magical visitors, great panto performances and the unveiling of our brand new neon Christmas Tree.
“We can’t wait to see our visitors’ reactions as we embark on new traditions and look forward to a festive season full of enjoyment, family-time and entertainment.”
The new additions will be joined by the estate’s familiar illuminated reindeers and festive familiar faces such as Tap Dancing Turkeys, Giant Christmas Crackers, Elves and larger than life presents.
And as part of Liverpool ONE’s continued support of the local community a special ONE More Campaign will also be launched encouraging visitors to donate the value of “one more” gift or “one more” meal to support families in need across Liverpool city region.