Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is inviting eligible community organisations in identified sites to express an interest in delivering local Christmas Tree Switch-On Events as part of its annual Christmas Programme.
Recognising the important role that festive celebrations play in bringing communities together, the Council has opened its Community Christmas Tree Switch-On Event Scheme, designed to support the planning and delivery of community-led events that mark the beginning of the Christmas season.
The scheme is exclusively available to organisations operating within 20 rural locations approved by Council as eligible sites for participation.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) process is now open, providing an opportunity for community groups to submit proposals to organise and deliver Community Christmas Tree Switch-On Events in their local area.
Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: “Christmas Tree Switch-On Events have become an important part of the festive season, bringing local people together and creating a strong sense of community spirit.
“Through this scheme, the Council is supporting our communities to deliver welcoming, inclusive celebrations that can be enjoyed by residents of all ages. We encourage eligible organisations to come forward and take advantage of this opportunity to help make Christmas 2026 and beyond a memorable experience for their local area.”
Where more than one organisation operates within the same location, the Council strongly encourages groups to work together and submit a collaborative application. Partnership arrangements are welcomed; however, a lead applicant must be nominated to take responsibility for the application and any subsequent funding agreement.
Funding will be awarded to a maximum of one organisation or partnership per location under the scheme.
Organisations interested in applying are encouraged to review the scheme guidance and submit their Expression of Interest before the closing date.
For further information on the Community Christmas Tree Switch-On Event Scheme and how to apply, visit https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/1VM2HZ/