A packed community events schedule is planned for 2019, Douglas Borough Council has confirmed.

Friday November 1 will see the Council’s public fireworks display, complete with bonfire and Best Guy competition, then Thursday November 21 will see the Christmas lights switch-on ceremony in a new location, the North Quay, but with the usual compelling mix of traditional entertainment and Father Christmas in his grotto.

This year’s Noble’s Park fun day will be on Saturday August 3 with a revised and enhanced format, as Regeneration and Community Chair Councillor Stephen Pitts explained: ‘We have plans to expand the range of attractions for the fun day as the extensive promenade regeneration works means that Douglas Carnival cannot be accommodated there this year.

‘Much thought was given to identifying an alternative venue for the Carnival but Douglas promenade is the event’s natural “home”. It not only provides the perfect site for the floats’ display and parade but also an unmatched setting and perfect backdrop to the spectacle, colour and sense of theatre that make the Carnival the crowd-pleasing event it has become.

‘So many organisations and individuals put such a tremendous amount of effort into ensuring the success of the Carnival which can only be best showcased on the promenade. We would, however, urge anyone who has taken part in the Carnival in previous years - and newcomers - to get involved in this year’s fun day. Call the Council’s events team on 696311 or email mailto:ccullen@douglas.gov.im.

‘We shall be working closely with the Department of Infrastructure to monitor progress of the regeneration works with a view to celebrating the return of the Carnival as early as possible, bigger and better than before.’

Meanwhile, Easter will see two days of food and craft markets. Organised by Douglas Town Centre Management, they will be on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 April in the former Shoprite store in Chester Street, and build on the runaway success of Christmas markets held there last December.

For more information about Noble’s Park fun day contact Christina Cullen or call 696311.

To find out more about the Easter markets, contact Douglas Town Centre Manager Oliver Cheshire, or call 696304.

For all the latest news about community events in Douglas visit Douglas Borough Council’s and Douglas Town Centre Management’s Facebook pages.