As the festive season is drawing near, it can only mean one thing – the start of Christmas events across the Borough!
Save the dates in your calendars to join the spectacular Christmas light displays in Bedford and Kempston town centres, and enjoy live music, carols, food offerings, arts, crafts and a range of free family activities.
Bedford Lights Switch-On
The free Bedford Lights Switch-On event returns to Harpur Square in Bedford town centre on Saturday 21 November, starting at midday. The Christmas lights will be turned on at 5pm by the Mayor of Bedford Borough, Tom Wootton.
There will also be live entertainment during the event including:
• Bedford Youth Community Gospel Choir: midday-12.15pm
• Bedford Rock Choir: 12.25-12.40pm
• Junior Spotlight Singers from Castle Newnham School: 12.50-1.05pm
• Song Squad performing arts: 1.15-1.30pm
• Stagecoach Bedford Borough: 1.40-1.55pm
• Donna Samuel: 2-3pm
• Funk Odyssey: 3-4pm
• Laura Menozzi and friends: 4-5pm
• Christmas lights switch-on and sing-along with Laura Menozzi and friends: 5pm-5.15pm
• DJ with Bedford Radio: 5.15-6pm
Visitors are welcome to head to the Harpur Suite on the day to watch Christmas films from 11am-4.45pm for free.
There will also be craft and gift stalls, food offerings and family-friendly activities including a free face painter in the Harpur Suite from midday to 4pm, and colouring-in at the What's On Bedford Borough Visitor Information Centre on Silver Street.
Kempston Lights Switch-On
The free Kempston Lights Switch-On takes place on Sunday 29 November at the Saxon Centre in Kempston town centre from midday to 6pm.
The Council’s Markets team will be supporting Kempston Town Council throughout the day hosting craft and gift stalls, food offerings, live entertainment, children’s rides and more.
Lights will be switched on at 5pm with a special guest from the North Pole!
Bedford Christmas Market and Christmas Art Fair
The Christmas Market in Bedford town centre will also take place at Harpur Square and the Harpur Suite on Saturday 5 December from 10am-5pm, and on Sunday 6 December from 10am-4pm.
There will be a variety of local crafters, makers and producers offering unique gifts perfect for Christmas presents, from artisanal decorations and handcrafted creations to bespoke toys and festive locally-sourced treats.
The first Bedford Christmas Art Fair at St. Paul’s Square will also run on Sunday 6 December from 10am-4pm. Organised by a group of local artists, Perch Presents, visitors can find amazing works from local painters, illustrators, printmakers and other visual artists.
Festive music will be played around the town centre during the weekend.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Prosperity, Planning, Housing and Regulatory Services said; “We are delighted to welcome everyone to the Christmas events this year. This is a wonderful way to bring our communities together, support local businesses in the town centres and spotlight local talent at the first Christmas Art Fair.
“Save the dates in your diaries to make more memories and be part of the festivities.”