Festival of Light returns for St Luke’s 50th anniversary celebrations

25th October 2021

The St Luke's Festival of Light is back and this year, the charity is asking supporters to dedicate a light and join their light switch-on in their gardens at Little Common Lane on Sunday 5 December, to mark the start of their 50th anniversary year.

One of Sheffield’s best loved festive traditions will be making a return for Christmas 2021.

The St Luke’s Festival of Light is the annual celebration that sees thousands of lights illuminate the charity’s Little Common Lane garden, all dedicated in memory of loved ones.

Last year’s switch on had to be cancelled as the country went into winter lockdown, though supporters did have the opportunity to at least enjoy the moment with a special online ceremony.

Organisers are confident, however, that this year’s event will be able to go ahead on Sunday 5 December, hosted by BBC Radio Sheffield presenter and keen St Luke’s supporter Paulette Edwards.

For anyone unable to be the hospice, there will still be a chance to join in the event at home with a video of the light switch-on available to view on the St Luke’s website and Facebook page at 6pm.

And making the event even more special will be the fact that this year’s ceremony forms part of the charity’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

“Festival of Light is loved by St Luke’s supporters and for many it is the start of the festive season,” said St Luke’s Head of Fundraising Joasia Lesniak.

“It’s a time for us all to come together to remember and celebrate the lives of our loved ones.

“We are delighted to let you know, that preparations are underway to welcome you back this year on Sunday 5 December from 5pm, to enjoy food, music and, of course, gather together to see our light switch-on, in the true Festival of Light spirit.

“Safety is and always will be our main priority and we’re busy planning the safest way for us to hold this event, without too much compromise to still offer our supporters the chance to remember loved ones together.  

“We’re hoping that this year will feel extra special as this Festival of Light marks the start of our 50th anniversary year. 

“St Luke’s has come a long way in the 50 years it has been caring for terminally ill people in Sheffield and the last two years have certainly been some of our most challenging.

“We’re excited to move forwards into a year in which we celebrate some of the great work being done and give thanks to supporters like you, who make it all possible.”

To find out more about the 2021 Festival of Light and how to support the event and make a donation simply visit www.stlukeshospice.org.uk/light.