The magic of Christmas is returning to Amelia Court this December, with the much-loved Christmas lights display promising to be bigger and brighter than ever, all in support of Foyle Hospice and Foyle Foodbank.

Residents of Amelia Court are coming together for the official launch on Tuesday, December 1, to spread festive cheer throughout the city, transforming their neighbourhood into a spectacular Christmas wonderland in aid of the two charities.

As preparations get underway, the organisers are appealing to local businesses and the wider community to help make this year's celebrations extra special.

As a charity event, Amelia Court Christmas Lights relies on the generosity of local people, and organisers would be grateful for donations of selection boxes or tubes of sweets to ensure every child who visits Santa's magical grotto leaves with a special festive treat.

Santa pictured at Amelia Court in Steelstown during a previous Christmas lights display by residents. Photo: George Sweeney

placeholder image — Santa pictured at Amelia Court in Steelstown during a previous Christmas lights display by residents. Photo: George Sweeney

Whether it's a local business making a donation, a family contributing an extra selection box or someone simply helping to spread the word, every contribution will help bring a little extra Christmas magic to the event.

Over the years, Amelia Court Christmas Lights has become a much-loved festive tradition, bringing families and communities together while raising vital funds for local causes.

Behind the spectacular displays is a dedicated group of residents who generously volunteer their time and efforts to bring the magic of Christmas to life, with the continued support of local people helping to make the event possible year after year.

Aoife McConnell, Community Fundraiser at Foyle Hospice, expressed her gratitude to everyone involved in organising the annual display saying: “Amelia Court Christmas Lights is a wonderful example of the generosity and community spirit that makes this time of year so special.

The Lights will officially launch on Tuesday December 1, with an evening of live music and special guests.

“The residents put an incredible amount of time, effort and dedication into creating something truly magical for local families, and we're absolutely delighted that Foyle Hospice has been chosen as one of the charities to benefit from this year's event.

“It's lovely to see the community coming together to celebrate Christmas while also making a meaningful difference to local people. Every donation received will help us continue providing specialist palliative care and support to patients and their families.

Karen Mullan, Director of Foyle Network Foundation, said: “ “Each Christmas, the residents of Amelia Court generously volunteer their time to create a memorable holiday experience for local children and raise funds for community causes.

“This year promises to be especially magical, with new characters and expanded light displays added to the event. We are extremely grateful for their support and look forward to participating in this year's celebrations.”

Over the years, Amelia Court Christmas Lights has become a much-loved festive tradition.

22 stunning photos of Amelia Court’s dazzling Christmas lights in Derry

The organisers are encouraging families, friends and visitors of all ages to come along, enjoy the festive displays and help support two charities making a difference in the local community.

The Lights will officially launch on Tuesday December 1, with an evening of live music and special guests to mark the beginning of this year's festivities.

Running every evening from 6pm to 9pm until Christmas Eve, the display will welcome families and visitors from across the city and beyond to enjoy the festive atmosphere, dazzling lights and a host of Christmas surprises.

Anyone wishing to donate selection boxes or tubes of sweets, or offer support can contact the organisers directly through the Amelia Court Christmas Lights Facebook or Instagram pages.