Joining a large crowd in communal revelry energises me so much and I only wish my photography can translate this excitement and festive atmosphere into images! Dumfries was celebrating the 2014 Xmas Lights Switch On in style with funfair rides, an ice rink and ski slope, stage performances and fireworks. Of course, crowds grew progressively bigger as the main 6pm event was approaching.
The youngest kids enjoyed the Cartoon Slide while the older ones felt the adrenaline of the Experience ride. An artificial ice rink was built at Queenberry Square and challenged its visitors to stay on their feet. At 5pm the Doonhamers were treated to a performance by the Scottish boy band Rewind which appearance was enthusiastically welcomed by teenage fans. Disney characters provided entertainment both on stage and on the streets.
I was meaning to catch up with the young Stovies presenting their anti-consumerism art project but by the time I reached them through the crowds they were already packing up their stall. Next year?
As Santa was building up the audience for the final countdown, Strictly Come Dancing stars Anton Du Beke and Alison Hammond (who visited the town for a BBC Comic Relief special Strictly show launch) made a surprise appearance at the Switch On event.
The fireworks were fun!
