Residents in Callander spread festive cheer raising £22k to boost Christmas lights display

Residents of Callander have come together to spread festive cheer this Christmas season by raising an impressive £22,000 to enhance the town’s Christmas lights display. Each year, the town undergoes a magical transformation into a winter wonderland, and this year is no different as preparations are underway to extend the traditional lights along the main route through the town.

After receiving positive feedback about the lights in Ancaster Square from the previous year, organisers Richard and Mary Johnson have planned to expand the lights all along Main Street for this year’s display. The lights in Ancaster Square have been renewed and will be beautifully draped around the trees and buildings in the Square.

The focal point of the decorations will once again be the Christmas tree in the Square, complemented by six new artificial trees adorned with twinkling lights. Along Main Street, wrap-around lighting braids will be installed on each of the 30 lamp-posts, stretching from Station Road to Bracklinn Road. BEAR Scotland has been enlisted to upgrade all lamp-posts for safe connections, and a specialised company will handle the installation of the lights.

The grand switch-on event is scheduled for Saturday, November 30, featuring a parade led by two alpacas and Santa’s Sleigh departing from the Medical Centre at 3.30pm. Children in the parade will be provided with lanterns to carry to Ancaster Square, where Callander Brass will perform Christmas carols. Festive treats like mulled wine, mince pies, popcorn, and candy floss will be available, and one of the new artificial trees will serve as a Memorial Tree for hanging baubles in memory of loved ones.

Fundraising efforts for the enhanced lights began in the summer and have since amassed a total of £22,000. Local organisations have contributed grants totaling £17,000, a ‘sponsor a lamp-post’ initiative raised £4,000, and crowdfunding efforts sealed the final £1,000. Richard expressed gratitude towards the supportive residents and business owners in the community, acknowledging the army of volunteers prepared to assist with setting up the lights and supporting the switch-on event.

In summary, the community of Callander has rallied together to raise funds for an enchanting Christmas lights display, extending the decorations along Main Street to create a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors alike to enjoy during the holiday season.