Royal Wootton Bassett is set to celebration the start of the 2024 festivities with a town Christmas lights switch-on - here are all the details you need to know.
With over 60 stalls, a funfair and live entertainment, the Royal Wootton Bassett lights switch-on is set to be a big celebration of community and Christmas.
Royal Wootton Bassett High Street will be closed to all traffic from 2pm to 10pm on Friday, November 29, and the Christmas event will officially kick off at 5pm with a performance from Noremarsh Junior School choir performing opposite Iceland.
Santa's grotto, which is sponsored by Safewell, will open from 5.30pm until 7.30pm outside the High Street Banking Hub, and fairground rides and stalls are set to line the street from this time.
Stallholders such as Broadtown Brewery, Rusty Garage Brewpub and WBLOS will be selling independent crafts, food, drinks, festive gifts and more - all fundraising for local charities and community groups.
"Royal Wootton Bassett is sure to light up with Christmas cheer this Friday," said a spokesperson for Royal Wootton Bassett Town Council.
"We hope everyone has a fantastic time enjoying all the festivities and making wonderful memories."
The official town Christmas lights will be switched on at 6pm at the newly refurbished Town Hall by Royal Wootton Bassett mayor, Cllr Pat Farrow, town crier Owen Collier and the young winner of this year's Christmas card competition.
The provided Christmas trees will be sponsored by Awdry Law.
Once the lights go on at 6pm, visitors can expect to find face painting outside Hoth Kitchens, the Rise Trust graffiti wall at Awdry Law and even a fire truck for youngsters to look around.
Live music will be provided by Bassett Brass band, Cantanti Choir, and the Swindon Songbirds.
Some shops in town, such as Oxfam, are also expected to stay open until 8pm to allow for visitors to do some late night shopping.
The whole event is set to draw to a close by 8.30pm, and by 10pm the High Street will be reopened to traffic.
Sharing their excitement, a spokesperson for the town fire station said: Who's coming to Royal Wootton Bassett High Street this Friday? Big and red with flashing lights... it's our new carrier that's who!
"If you want a closer look come and say hi on Friday at the Christmas lights switch on."
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