Levenshulme Village organized a massive Christmas Street party to celebrate the switch on of its £15,000 display of Christmas lights on Wednesday 29th November 2000 at 6pm.

Farmside Place in the centre of the village was sealed off to cars and a massive outdoor stage erected outside the Palace Nightclub.

Father Christmas arrived at 3pm and local children were able to give him their Christmas list and receive a free present. Alma Park Steel Band started the live entertainment alongside a live DJ.

On hand to switch on the lights were the Lord Mayor of Manchester Cllr. Hugh Barratt and Commonwealth Gold medallist swimmer James Hickman.

Manchester City's mascot "Moonchester" also made an appearance with Manchester United's "Fred the Red" and the Commonwealth Games Mascot "Kit"'

This wonderful display and event was funded by the Levenshulme Traders, the SRB together with Manchester City Council and in conjunction with Manchester Bright and Clean.

Dave Roberts, Chairman of Levenshulme Traders said " These lights always give the centre of Levenshulme village a truly festive look. They have played a massive part in bringing more people into the area, not just to shop but also to visit the many varied Restaurants and Bars to be found locally. The area has so much to offer with easy free parking and a friendly atmosphere”.

Lead member for the A6 Corridor, Councillor Val Stevens said "This Christmas will be extra special in Levenshulme as local traders together with the council have been working hard over the last twelve months to dramatically upgrade and improve the shopping area for residents. £500,000 of regeneration money has been spent on improving the Victorian shop frontages. Our aim is to create a unique shopping destination which offers achoice of specialist shops along side retailers that offer everyday goods and services." "Once the retail improvement scheme has been completed the A6 Partnership will embark on an ambitious environmental programme along Stockport Road. This will see new pavements installed, trees planted and improved street lighting.