Nelson Town Council is inviting primary school children across Nelson to get creative this Christmas with a special festive colouring competition

Primary school children across Nelson are being invited to get creative this Christmas, with the launch of a special festive colouring competition offering the chance to win one of three hampers.

Organised by Nelson Town Council as part of the 2026 Nelson Christmas Light Switch On celebrations, the competition will see children colour in and decorate their very own Christmas tree designs, with prizes up for grabs for the three winning entries.

The competition was launched at St John Southworth RC Primary School, where a giant Santa's sleigh helped bring some festive excitement to the playground.

Members of the Nelson Town Council team joined teachers and pupils to launch the competition, with entry forms now being delivered throughout this week.

Children will be encouraged to use their imagination to create colourful and eye-catching Christmas tree designs, which will be collected and judged ahead of the Nelson Christmas Light Switch On, which takes place on Saturday November 21.

The three winning entries will each receive a special Christmas hamper, with the winners invited to collect their prizes at the event.

Coun. Sughra Bibi, events chairman at Nelson Town Council, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for local children to have some festive fun and get creative, with some brilliant prizes up for grabs! We can't wait to see all the wonderful Christmas tree designs and celebrate our winners at the Christmas Light Switch On."

The switch-on takes place from noon until 5.40pm, with an action-packed afternoon of entertainment and attractions for all the family.

Headlining this year's event will be singer, songwriter, television personality and social media sensation Junior Andre, who will take to the main stage at 5pm.

Visitors can also look forward to a spectacular fireworks display, a free Santa's Grotto, free funfair rides and a variety of festive food, drink and craft stalls.

There will also be plenty of live entertainment throughout the afternoon, including Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter tribute performances, Frozen sing-alongs, dance performances and much more.