Enchanted Gardens Light Trail returning to Town Gardens

The magical Enchanted Gardens Light Trail is set to illuminate Swindon's historic Town Gardens once again.

It will bring what is billed as a spectacular Winter Wonderland experience to visitors from Friday 29 November to Tuesday 24 December 2024. 

The event is organised and managed by South Swindon Parish Council, which says this year's promises to be more enchanting than ever, featuring a longer trail with more brand new illuminations which will transform the Town Gardens into a glowing spectacle of light and colour. 

Visitors will be taken on a journey through the gardens, experiencing stunning light installations and immersive displays that celebrate the beauty of this historic space. 

Cllr Neil Hopkins, Chair of South Swindon Parish Council, said: "We're thrilled to bring the Enchanted Gardens Light Trail back to Swindon for another year. 

"We're proud to organise this event that has become a highlight of Swindon’s winter calendar. This year’s trail will have a new route and even more installations, with some that will be seen for the first time in this country.

“We are very excited to be partnering this year with the local NHS charity, Brighter Futures, in a number of ways including car parking at Commonweal School and the sales of Light Trail merchandise. We also have some new and exciting food and refreshment offerings for this year. 

“I can’t wait to see the Town Gardens come alive once again with spectacular light displays and I hope to see many Swindon residents take part.” 

Brighter Futures is dedicated to raising funds for the Great Western Hospital, and volunteers will be visible for selected dates throughout the trail, and will be selling event merchandise, winter raffle tickets and festive craft items. 

They will also be marshalling the car park throughout the event at Commonweal School and Sixth Form, with every donation made via those parking benefiting the charity. All the funds raised from this year’s event will go towards the urgent and emergency care expansion, which is the second phase of the Way Forward Programme.

The charity said: "We are once again delighted to be working in partnership with the South Swindon Parish Council for this prestigious festive family event.  Since its inception The Enchanted Garden Lights trail has been incredibly popular and as a charity we have benefitted greatly.  

"Our current major appeal – the Way Forward appeal - has raised in excess of £27,000 from the very generous support and donations facilitated by the South Swindon Parish Council and those attending the event.  

“All the funds raised from this year’s event will go towards the urgent and emergency care expansion, which is the second phase of the Way Forward Programme. When booking event tickets there is an option this year to donate to Brighter Futures at checkout, which is a great facility and if you can make a donation – know you will be making a difference. 

“As a team we really cannot wait to be part of the fun and festivities – to be immersed in the event and watching on as the Town Gardens come alive as a winter wonderland of light is a real joy! So, we urge as many people as possible to sign up and support this magical event.

“As in past years with the help and dedication of our amazing volunteers we will be visible for selected dates within the event village, look out for us, as we will be selling event merchandise, winter raffle tickets and festive craft items.  

"We will also be marshalling the car park throughout the event at Commonweal School and Sixth Form with every donation made via those parking benefitting the charity which we are so grateful for.  

“With the wonderful news of being named as the Charity partner for The Enchanted Garden Lights Trail, you can say Christmas really has come early for us this year.  And we very much look forward to seeing you all under the magic of the lights soon.”

 

The heart of the event will be centred around the iconic bandstand, which will feature a well-stocked food and beverage area including a bar, hot drinks, sweet treats, bratwurst and more. 

There is also a programme of entertainment on the bandstand featuring some of Swindon’s favourite music acts and local school choirs. 

The Bandstand area is sponsored by Gel Studios, a Swindon based creative agency who have designed all the marketing for this year’s trail. Other sponsors include African Star Tours, TECC Ltd, The Wyvern Theatre, Deacons, Town Gardens Bowls Club and South Swindon in Bloom. 

The illuminations are created by Luminism, a branch of YES Events, known for their innovative and captivating light designs.

Tickets can be purchased through the Town Gardens website: www.towngardens-swindon.co.uk/enchanted-gardens-light-trail/