The singer, best known for iconic 90s hits Set You Free with N-Trance and solo anthems including Heart of Gold and True Love Never Dies, will lead the countdown to the big switch-on in front of what’s expected to be another huge crowd. N-Trance in their current line-up headlined the Darwen Switch On in 2023.
Planning a night out? See the live What’s On in Blackburn calendar.
The annual celebration is one of East Lancashire’s biggest festive events, drawing thousands of visitors to the town for more than 10 hours of live entertainment, festive markets, fairground rides, and even a visit from Father Christmas.
After last year’s record-breaking turnout, organisers Crafty Vintage say they’re planning another spectacular show — with Kelly Llorenna topping a packed line-up of local talent and performers.
Laura Johnson from Crafty Vintage said:
“People look forward to Darwen’s lights switch-on every single year. The drone photo of last year’s crowds was just incredible!
We put so much into creating a fantastic day for the town — and this year, we can’t wait to welcome Kelly Llorenna as our headliner.”
The free, family-friendly event is being organised in partnership with Blackburn with Darwen Council and Darwen Town Council, with both pledging to make this year’s celebration bigger and brighter than ever.
Councillor Quesir Mahmood, Deputy Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:
“The switch-on is a real highlight in the festive calendar. It’s a brilliant way for families and friends to start the Christmas season together while supporting our local traders and independent businesses.”
The full line-up will be announced soon on the Darwen Town Centre website at www.darwentowncentre.co.uk, along with updates on the Darwen Town Centre Facebook and Shop Darwen Instagram pages.
🎄 Darwen Christmas Lights Switch-On 2025
📅 Saturday, November 15
📍 Darwen Market Square
🎶 Headliner: Kelly Llorenna