Christmas 2020 will look different for all of us but we still want to help spread some Christmas cheer and to celebrate the people who make our Borough light up over the holidays… and throughout the rest of the year too!

Ards and North Down Borough Council officially launched its Christmas video today (26 November 2020). Inspired by the response of Ards and North Down to the COVID-19 pandemic and the “acts of kindness” that emerged from our communities, this year’s video has switched focus from gift giving to sharing the love.

Using some previously filmed footage along with some newly filmed scenes and featuring many of the Borough’s frontline staff, the video’s seasonal message – #LightUpAND – reminds us that in this extraordinary year, one huge positive has been the way in which people and communities have come together to support each other. The anxiety and uncertainty of coronavirus has brought out the best in people in many ways – that’s something we have seen throughout Ards and North Down. As we head towards the end of 2020, we want to celebrate the very best of our local areas and the people who stepped up when we needed them most.

The special seasonal video features some of our key workers and frontline services – we could think of no better way to bring a smile to people’s faces at the end of such a challenging year. The heart-warming soundtrack on the video is ‘Globe Lights’ by Bangor based duo The Darkling Air, brings emotion and warmth to the message behind the video. A huge thanks must go to everyone who participating in the filming of this video.

You can view the video from below and across our main social media channels: Facebook and Instagram @ArdsandNorthDownBoroughCouncil; Twitter @ANDBorough. If you like what you see – please share the video on your own channels and help us to #LightUpAND.

Whilst we cannot come together for many of our usual annual Christmas events, we will bring you lots of virtual festivities to enjoy from the comfort of your own home while keeping your family and community safe. From arts and crafts demonstrations to festive music; celebrating our Covid heroes to capturing the beauty of the Christmas lights in our towns and villages – we will be covering it all virtually.

Find out more about our #LightUpAND campaign at ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk/LightUpAND