2001 - The huge crowds that gathered for the Wigan Christmas lights switch on.placeholder image
2001 - The huge crowds that gathered for the Wigan Christmas lights switch on.

RETRO: Wigan Christmas lights switch-on events from over the years

By Michelle Adamson
Published 10th Nov 2022, 12:30 GMT

Feeling festive? Here is a selection of photographs to get you in the mood from our archives featuring Wigan town centre Christmas illuminations switch-ons from 1980s through to 2010.

This year’s event takes place on November 26 with Pop Idol star Gareth Gates headlining.

1988 - Wigan Rugby League's New Zealand brothers Tony and Kevin Iro who switched on the town's Christmas lights on Thursday 17th of November 1988.

1. RETRO

1988 - Wigan Rugby League's New Zealand brothers Tony and Kevin Iro who switched on the town's Christmas lights on Thursday 17th of November 1988. Photo: Frank Orrell

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Standishgate after the switch on of the Christmas lights on Thursday 17th of November 1988.

2. RETRO

Standishgate after the switch on of the Christmas lights on Thursday 17th of November 1988. Photo: Frank Orrell

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RETRO 1980s - Christmas in Wigan town centre

3. RETRO

RETRO 1980s - Christmas in Wigan town centre Photo: gb

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1999 - The Mayor, Coun. Evelyn Smith, with Santa after switching on the Christmas lights.

4. RETRO

1999 - The Mayor, Coun. Evelyn Smith, with Santa after switching on the Christmas lights. Photo: FRANK ORRELL

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