Swindon town centre is getting ready for Christmas, with a packed programme of festive activities set to bring food, entertainment and a little seasonal magic to the heart of the town.
From a Christmas tree lights switch-on and festive food market to a magical lantern forest and a free Santa’s Grotto, there will be plenty for families to enjoy in the run-up to the big day.
The celebrations form part of Swindon Winter Fest, organised in collaboration with Swindon Culture Collective, with events taking place across several town centre locations throughout November and December.
Christmas tree lights switch-on and Jumper Jam
The town centre’s Christmas decorations are set to make an appearance over the coming days, with a Christmas tree due to arrive outside the former Debenhams store in The Parade on Wednesday 18 November.
The main celebration takes place on Saturday 28 November, when the Christmas Jumper Jam will mark the official switching on of the tree lights.
Visitors can expect Christmas carols performed by local choirs, along with a few festive treats.
The first 100 people arriving in Christmas jumpers will receive a free hot drink, while everyone attending will be given a complimentary raffle ticket.
Among the prizes will be a family ticket to Jack and the Beanstalk at the Wyvern Theatre, courtesy of Trafalgar.
Festive food market returns to The Parade
Following the success of last month’s Continental Market, The Parade will welcome another selection of food traders for the Swindon Festive Feast.
Running from 26 November to 1 December, the market will offer a variety of food and seasonal favourites, giving shoppers another reason to spend time in the town centre.
A magical lantern forest comes to Canal Walk
One of the more unusual attractions this Christmas will be A Magical Lantern Forest: A Winter’s Tale, taking over the former Argos store at 19 Canal Walk.
Visitors will be able to explore an illuminated woodland setting, complete with woven willow structures, handcrafted paper lanterns and giant woodland creatures inspired by traditional stories and folklore.
The attraction will be open on the following dates:
28 November: 12pm to 6.30pm
29 November: 10am to 5pm
4, 5 and 6 December: 10am to 5pm
Local families will also have an opportunity to help create some of the decorations.
Two lantern-making workshops have been planned, with families invited to drop into the Swindon Hub on Saturday 14 November between 10am and 4pm to make willow and paper lanterns that will become part of the display.
The former Argos store will continue hosting events and activities every Friday, Saturday and Sunday throughout December, with further announcements expected.
Santa, pantomime and fairground fun
Christmas wouldn’t be quite the same without a visit from Father Christmas, and the Brunel Shopping Centre will be offering a free Santa’s Grotto on selected dates from 14 November.
Meanwhile, the Wyvern Theatre will welcome its annual pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk, running from 5 December until 3 January.
Stephen Hill’s Funfair will also be setting up at Wharf Green, adding another attraction to the town centre’s Christmas celebrations.
Council hopes festive programme will bring people into town
Councillor Matthew Vallender, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Planning and Regeneration, welcomed the programme of events.
“Christmas is coming to town and it’s time for us all to get into the festive spirit,” he said.
He added that the town centre would offer plenty of family-friendly activities, from the Christmas tree lights switch-on to the festive food market.
“Whether you’re looking for a quick bite, Christmas gifts or just looking to get into the holiday spirit, then the town centre is sure to have something to tickle your fancy.”
More Christmas activities across Swindon
The celebrations won’t be limited to the town centre.
Lydiard Park and the STEAM Museum are also preparing their own seasonal programmes, providing further opportunities for residents and visitors to enjoy Christmas activities across Swindon.
With shopping, food, entertainment and family attractions all on the calendar, the coming weeks could provide a welcome boost for the town centre’s shops and businesses.
Further information about Swindon Winter Fest and upcoming activities can be found at do.swindon.co.uk.
