Glasgow’s Christmas lights switch-on has been cancelled in favour of a ‘virtual moment’ due to coronavirus restrictions.
Organisers say that the reason for the change is due to rules on covid certification, the Daily Record reports.
As the event normally attracts more than 10,000 people, attendants would have been required to show that they have been given both doses of the covid vaccine before entry.
Glasgow Loves Christmas, which organises festive events on behalf of Glasgow City Council, said that vaccination checks would take longer than the event itself.
But they added that more buildings in the city centre will be lit up in the city centre during December.
Details of the virtual event are yet to be confirmed.
A spokesperson for Glasgow Loves Christmas said: “There will be a virtual Christmas lights switch-on moment.
“The Christmas Lights switch-on event was always massively over-subscribed with the vast majority of people unable to get tickets.
“Covid protection guidance would mean anyone attending would need to provide evidence of double vaccination making the process of getting into the event as long as the event itself.
“Instead, more buildings in the city centre are being illuminated throughout December allowing everyone the chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere of Glasgow as much as they want, soaking up the vibrant culture, nightlife, entertainment and retail Glasgow has to offer and supporting businesses during the crucial festive period.”
The news comes just hours after the announcement that Christmas Market in George Square has been cancelled.
Market Place Europe, who has previously run the event, issued the update explaining they had to cancel this year’s market due to experiencing difficulties accessing the site.
Organisers said that they were ‘unable to create a mutually agreeable plan for the venue’.
The St Enoch Square market will still go ahead as planned from November 21 until December 23.
