For the second consecutive year, the Christmas light switch-on event has been cancelled.

Despite the disappointment, residents and visitors can look forward to a newly planned festive weekend celebration, offering a range of holiday-themed activities to bring the community together.

The council said the reason for the cancellation is the construction works on Fargate.

Accommodating large crowds in the city centre at once poses safety risks.

Instead, this year, Sheffield City Council will be hosting a full weekend of Christmas activities and performances.

Councillor Martin Smith said: “This year’s events are set to be bigger than ever.”

“We hope to see Sheffield residents, and visitors to the city, head down over the course of the weekend to enjoy what we know will be great fun and entertainment for everyone.”

The council have announced the free weekend, named ‘Crackers for Christmas’.

This will be taking place on Saturday 16th of November until Sunday 17th November. 

It will feature musical performances, dance acts, panto, street entertainment as well as crafts and storytelling for the kids. 

The Christmas markets will be back this year from Thursday 14th November, right up until Christmas Eve.

The city will also be lit up from Cambridge Street to Barkers Pool, Pinstone Street and the Peace Gardens from 4pm daily, until Thursday 5th January.

For more information about the Christmas Markets click here.

For more community stories click here.