Organisers shared the ‘disappointing’ update but have reassured visitors that the event ‘isn’t going anywhere’
The Christmas light switch-on has been cancelled for 2025(Image: Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News)
A popular Christmas light switch-on has been cancelled, organisers have confirmed. Those behind MarpleFest, a series of community events held in Marple in Stockport, have confirmed that its annual festive event held in the run up to Christmas will not go ahead this year.
Sharing an update on the MarpleFest Facebook page, organisers cited a ‘lack of volunteers’ as the reason they could not host the traditional Christmas light switch-on and lantern parade this year.
The event, which is one of many community activities held in the town, is one of the most anticipated, complete with markets encompassing food, gifts, clothes and jewellery, as well as entertainers, fairground rides, lanterns and a Father Christmas Grotto.
Updating residents yesterday, the Facebook post read: “We wanted to share an important update about this year’s MarpleFest Christmas celebrations.
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“Unfortunately, due to a few unexpected challenges and a shortage of volunteers, we’re unable to host our traditional Christmas Lights Switch-On and Lantern Parade this year.
“These events take an incredible amount of planning, teamwork, and community spirit – and we simply don’t have the people power this time to deliver them to the standard Marple deserves.”
However, those worried that this could spell the end of MarpleFest and its community events programme were quickly reassured.
The post added: “But don’t worry – MarpleFest isn’t going anywhere. We’re already planning to return in 2026 with new community events that will make full use of our wonderful festoon lights and celebrate everything that makes Marple special.
Marple in Stockport(Image: Manchester Evening News)
“To make that happen, we’re looking for new volunteers to join our friendly team. Even a small contribution can make a big difference.”
The post then went onto explain that organisers will need help with logistics and organisation, admin and coordination, social media and communications, marshalling and safety support, and first aid and general event help.
“If you have enthusiasm, local pride, or a particular skill you think could help, we’d love to hear from you,” they added.
“Drop us a message, comment below, or email us – we’re keen to keep collaborating with fantastic local groups like Make It Marple and, of course, continue our unwavering support for the Marple Carnival.
“We know it’s disappointing to miss Father Christmas and the Lantern Parade this year, but we’ll be back in the new year – refreshed, recharged, and ready to make Marple shine brighter than ever.
“Thank you for your continued support, see you in 2026. The MarpleFest Team.”
Community members were quick to support the new plans and call to action as regards to the new volunteers with one person commenting: “The list of opportunities / requirements is a good idea.”
While another added: “If there is a local sign-up sheet I’m sure plenty of people would volunteer. We already had the carnival cancelled which was a huge disappointment for Marple.”