Countdown to Christmas gathers pace with news of a lights switch on
It is happening in Christchurch at the end of November
Residents and visitors are being encouraged to save the date as Christchurch prepares to usher in the festive season with its popular Christmas Lights event.
The event, on Saturday 28 November, will transform traffic-free Christchurch town centre into a festive celebration from 2:30pm to 6:30pm.
There will be entertainment, family activities, market stalls, live music and seasonal food and drink. Visitors can look forward to a packed programme featuring stilt walkers, jugglers, hula hoop performers, bubble blowers, elves, fairground rides, artisan market stalls and a visit from Father Christmas.
Councillor Maggie Fidler, Mayor of Christchurch, said: “The Christmas Lights event is one of the highlights of Christchurch's festive calendar and something that many residents and businesses look forward to each year. It brings our community together, supports our town centre and provides a magical start to the Christmas season. I am delighted that Christchurch Town Council is once again delivering this much-loved tradition and I look forward to welcoming residents and visitors on 28 November”.
Mandy Polkey, of Stir Events CIC, said: "Christchurch is such a wonderful place to celebrate Christmas, and we are really looking forward to creating an event that brings families, residents, local businesses and visitors together. We've got a fantastic programme planned, with plenty for children, great local entertainment, independent traders, food and drink, and of course a spectacular Christmas lights moment and laser finale. Our aim is to create a warm, welcoming and memorable start to the Christmas season for Christchurch, and we can't wait to see the town centre filled with festive spirit on 28 November".
Organisers are also appealing for volunteers aged 16+ to help make the event a success. Volunteering offers the opportunity to take part in one of Christchurch's most popular community events, and help create a memorable experience for thousands of residents and visitors. Anyone interested is encouraged to contact Christchurch Town Council.