Great Harwood burst into festive life on Saturday as the much-loved Christmas Extravaganza returned in spectacular style, welcoming thousands of visitors.
The town was transformed into a hub of seasonal celebration, with a packed programme of entertainment, activities and festive cheer.
Crowds gathered at the giant main stage to enjoy a full day of free performances featuring singers, dancers and a dazzling headline set from Blondied, led by local star Michelle Hendriks.
The entertainment line-up shone a spotlight on outstanding local talent, including Halcyon Performing Arts, Helen Green Academy of Dance and Burnley College Musical Theatre.
Characters Anna and Elsa delighted families with a joyful Frozen sing-a-long, host Gavin Young led uplifting Christmas classics, rock/R&B/rap duo Kulturess energised the audience, Eliza Castle impressed with her remarkable vocals, and a popular Taylor Swift tribute returned to huge applause.
The excitement built throughout the day before international band Blondied, fronted by Michelle Hendriks, took to the stage for a showstopping finale. Originally from Great Harwood, Hendriks’ performance marked her first hometown appearance since touring internationally, making the moment even more special for residents and visitors who were thrilled to welcome her home.
To start the day, the Great Harwood Rovers procession travelled from Towngate to Mercer Hall, led by the world-famous Accrington Pipe Band.
The festive spirit continued with free children’s workshops in both the library and marquee, funfair rides, meet-and-greets, brass band performances and a visit from Santa himself, who helped hand out free selection boxes in the ever-popular Santa’s Grotto.
A bustling Christmas market showcased a fantastic range of food, drink, crafts and gifts, while Great Harwood’s independent shops welcomed visitors throughout the event.
There was also fantastic funfair rides and the celebrations concluded with a big Christmas sing-a-long and a magical snow cannon and spark finale.
Cllr Kimberley Whitehead, Deputy Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “What a truly fantastic event for Great Harwood. The atmosphere was incredible from start to finish, with so much happening right across the town. Blondied delivered an unforgettable headline set, and it was wonderful to see families, residents and visitors coming together to enjoy such a vibrant day of festive entertainment.
“Queen Street shoppers were treated to one of the largest Christmas markets, as well as the excellent independent shops, such as Curiosity Classics, which was new to me and fabulous.”
Murray Dawson, Managing Director of Scott Dawson Advertising, said: “Our team worked incredibly hard to deliver another showstopping extravaganza, and this year’s event is one we are really proud of. The dedication behind the scenes, combined with the amazing support from the community and performers, created a special day that showcased the very best of Great Harwood.
“We learn every year and focussed on the high street being open for business.”
Michelle Hendriks, lead singer of Blondied, said: “I was incredibly proud of my hometown – it was wonderful to see Great Harwood so busy and thriving, with everyone having such a good time. It honestly made my year to be a part of it.
“Everything was so well organised and everyone we dealt with was so helpful, it really made the day a joy from our side. Thank you again for inviting Blondied to be involved and for all the hard work that went on behind the scenes to make it happen.”
The Great Harwood Christmas Extravaganza was sponsored by Hyndburn Borough Council, BRSK, Financial Affairs and Peter Scott Printers, and organised by Scott Dawson Advertising.
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