Families also get the chance to meet Santa and Lightning McQueen when lights are switched on
THE people of Roath are invited to begin the Christmas countdown with carol singing and a laser show when the festive lights are switched on.
There will also be handmade gifts and live music at the free event will begins at 6.30pm at St Andrew’s Coffee Court on Wellfield Road on Friday (November 24).
The event, sponsored by Out and Proud, will be held inside and outside the church, which serves as a centre for the community.
St Andrew’s Coffee Court was started by Nathan Wyburn and Wayne Courtney to raise funds for the church, as it struggled financially after the pandemic. Wayne is a nurse and Nathan is an artist, who reached the semi-final of Britain’s Got Talent in 2011.
The event will also mark the first day that the catering at Coffee Court will be taken over by Francostreetfood, as Wayne and Nathan no longer have the time to balance operating it with their other charitable activities.
Francostreetfood also has a stall in Cardiff market offering traditional street food from the Apulia region of Italy, such as panzarotti and focaccia.
Three years ago Wayne and Nathan launched the annual Christmas lights party, after a previous event was cancelled.
“Wellfield Road used to have a huge spectacle of lights, and the community really looked forward to it,” said Nathan.
“Growing up I always remember the light switch-ons in my hometown, it’s a big part of welcoming in the Christmas season. So we felt the need here at St Andrew’s to do something, it’s all self-funded by us here at the church.”
“It’s all free so come along, get the community out, and have fun!”
