Maidenhead Christmas Lights – 26th November 2011
Tonight once again marked the occasion of Maidenhead’s Christmas Lights being switched on outside the Town Hall.
As in previous years, we made our way into town, this time choosing to refuel at McDonalds before heading up to St Ives Road for the festivities.
Approaching sunset outside Nat West
By the time we had negotiated the various stalls set up in the road it was already past 5pm and local band Riser were already in full swing, playing the first part of their set.
Riser playing amid the undergrowth
Holly particularly enjoyed dancing along to such classics as Place your hands – Reef, Dani California – Red Hot Chili Peppers and Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol, and even Emily was clapping along! There were also a couple of Christmas numbers thrown in, with Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin’ Stevens and a final offering of Fairytale of New York – The Pogues and Kirsty McColl.
Overall, Riser were very good. Their speakers certainly worked well!
Following the band, there were the usual announcements about the upcoming Christmas performance at Norden Farm and corny jokes before we finally reached the time for the big Switch-On.
Emily
This year, due to inclement winds, the fireworks were launched from the roof of St Ives House, just across the road from the Town Hall. This arrangement seemed to work very well and the fireworks were certainly the highlight of the evening.
First rockets heading up from St Ives House
The lit Christmas tree outside the Town Hall
Crowds outside Maidenhead Library
After they were over, we had a wander up the High Street and into the Nicholsons Centre to investigate their lights and Christmas tree, before heading home.
Holly and Rebekah on the Giant Tea-cups
The Bear
Looking up the High Street
One of the 'lights'
Queen Street
Bauble reflections
The Nicholson's Centre Christmas tree with Father Christmas' chair
Decorations outside the defunct Waterstone's
Baubles!
More bauble reflections
The girls by the Christmas tree
A Few Ramblings... 
Really happy to read this blog, which I found when searching for mentions of Riser! It’s always nice when people hear us and are so appreciative of the sounds we bring, we’re delighted that you had such a good time. Next time you see us (maybe at Cookham Scout Fayre in June?) come say hello!
Paul
Riser
Many thanks for stopping by and also for your kind words.
We all had a good night and wish you and Riser every success going forward.
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