Light trail and grotto among this year's festive attractions for Swindon people

By Barrie Hudson - 26 October 2022

CommunityAttractionsFamily
  • Image taken from a previous switch-on celebration in Old Town

    Image taken from a previous switch-on celebration in Old Town

Lovers of all things festive have plenty to look forward to in
Swindon this Christmas, with both Old Town and the town centre pulling out all the stops.

The centre, recently rebranded Town Centre inSwindon, will be transformed between 17 and 20 November for what is promised to be a perfect Yuletide celebration.

There will be a traditional Cotswolds Christmas Market by the Crossroads, a magical light trail, Santa’s Grotto, stilt-walkers and singing around a 43ft Christmas tree.

The Christmas light trail, with illuminations and light projections, will take visitors on a spectacular journey around the town centre, featuring characters and displays along the way. A trail map will be given out on the day or can be found online.

Parents and children will have the opportunity to meet Santa and his elves in Santa’s Grotto in the Community Hub and receive a gift and photo opportunity. Details can be found at www. swindontowncentre.co.uk and on the social media pages of inSwindon BID, the organisation tasked with promoting the town centre.

Visitors are assured of a perfect atmosphere combining beautifully decorated stalls with handcrafted gifts and tasty food and drink, accompanied by live music with choirs merrily singing carols around the Christmas Tree in The Parade, to raise money for local charities.

inSwindon BID Executive Director Anita Bellinger said: “For four magical days, you can visit our traditional Cotswold Christmas fair, with local crafts and decorations, artisan food and tasty treats, in the festive setting of the Town Centre in Swindon.

"There will a delightful Santa’s Grotto, singing by our 43ft Christmas Tree and a captivating and accessible light trail for every age to enjoy. This free event will bring a healthy dose of Christmas cheer and start the seasonal festivities in the town centre.”

Cotswold Christmas Market operator David Joynes said: “We’re so excited to be bringing the Christmas Market to Swindon Town Centre. We have been delivering Christmas Markets for over 40 years now, and this year more than ever everyone is ready for a quality Christmas experience.

"Stalls are going fast so contact [email protected] to book a place.”

In Old Town, the Christmas lights switch-on is back in its traditional in-person form following last year's virtual event.

As ever, the venue is Wood Street, and the celebration is scheduled for Sunday, 27 November from noon to 5pm.

The free-to-enter outdoor gathering, held by Old Town Business Association in partnership with South Swindon Parish Council, is billed as a celebration of Old Town achievements, businesses and local heroes, and will include food and drink stalls, Santa's Grotto, a live stage show and children's activities.

Further details will be released as the day approaches, and people can keep up with the latest announcements by visiting www.thisisoldtown.com

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