Brighten Your Day

This Scottish Village Lets Local Kids Design Their Christmas Lights

November 18, 2024

In the charming village of Newburgh, Scotland, the holiday season glows with creativity and community spirit thanks to a tradition that’s as heartwarming as it is unique.

Since 2002, the village’s Christmas lights have been designed by children from the local primary school in a beloved annual competition.

Credit: @GTOpoppy

The idea is simple but brilliant: let kids dream up festive designs and bring them to life as lights that decorate the streets.

These whimsical displays, ranging from two-legged reindeer to dancing Christmas trees and beyond, perfectly capture the magic of childhood imagination.

Credit: @GTOpoppy

Poppy McKenzie Smith, a proud local, recently shared photos of the lights and expressed what many in the community feel:

“Our village Christmas lights are designed by the local primary kids, and they are the single best thing about the festive season.”

Credit: @GTOpoppy

Newburgh’s residents rally together every year to raise funds for this unique display.

Credit: @GTOpoppy

Many believe this heartwarming tradition should spread far and wide.

"Everywhere should do this! That's the cutest thing ever!" one person commented.

Credit: @GTOpoppy

Shona Gray, head of Newburgh Action Group, who organize the lights, told BBC Scotland that no-one remembers who started the tradition.

"It might have been that there was a teacher from the local school on the committee that year, but no-one remembers," she said. "All we know is it became an annual competition and all the schoolchildren entered their drawings, with one being chosen to turn into a light."

Credit: @GTOpoppy

The winning design is proudly showcased on lamppost number 15, with the honor of switching it on for the first time going to the young artist behind it.

Credit: @GTOpoppy

Isla Ferguson, who is 15 now, won the competition in 2011.

"It is a big competition in the school as everyone really wants to have their drawings come to life and light up the town every year. When you do win you get to switch on the lights, there is a countdown and you just feel like the local celebrity.

Credit: Newburgh Action Group

This tradition is a shining example of how small ideas can light up a whole village. It’s a reminder that the best holiday decorations aren’t just about twinkling bulbs—they’re about the stories and love behind them.