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What’s planned for Christmas in Preston city centre

Posted on - 15th November, 2021 - 7:00am | Author - | Posted in - Christmas, Preston City Centre, Preston Council, Preston News, What's On in Preston, Winckley Square
Christmas Lights Switch on 2019
Christmas Lights Switch on 2019

Preston City Centre is set to bring all the Christmas cheer you need, no matter what you’re up to.

Supporting the high street, Preston City Council has commissioned a series of ‘Christmas Enhancements’ to make visiting the city centre a little more special this year, working with partners and ensuring there will be something extra special every weekend during the festive period.

It will all begin on Saturday 20 November with the much-anticipated Christmas Lights Switch On event, brought to you by Preston BID and Smooth Radio North West, featuring a host of famous names to get Prestonians in the festive mood.

Read more: Preston Here for Humanity to host reverse advent calendar for those in need

On Saturday 27 November there will be a magical event in Winckley Square Gardens between 11am and 3pm. Visitors will be able to meet and greet Reindeer, have their face painted, and have photo opportunities with the iconic sleigh, as well as an interactive snow globe.

The Reindeer and sleigh are back in Winckley Square Gardens the following weekend, Saturday 4 December, with the Salvation Army Band and the popular Record Fair, both at Preston Markets.

Returning to the Flag Market on Saturday 11 December is the ever-popular Preston Makers Market, plus bands from Salvation Army and St George the Martyr performing festive and traditional tunes at Preston Markets.

Christmas lights in Friargate in Preston city centre Pic: Tony Worrall
Christmas lights in Friargate in Preston city centre Pic: Tony Worrall

Later that day, there is a ‘Bratwurst & Butter Pie’ late night shopping event hosted by independent businesses on Cannon Street, Winckley Street and Guildhall Street.

The next day join The Friends of Winckley Square for their Christmas Concert in the Gardens on Sunday 12 December, 3-5.30pm.

A Winter Wonderland is coming to Winckley Square Gardens on Saturday 18 December with merry fun, refreshments and activities for all the family to enjoy.

You’ll meet familiar characters, be able to take part in Christmas adventures and of course, meet with Father Christmas himself. Over at Preston Markets, there will be more festive live music.

Read more: Preston City Council offering free car parking over the festive period

All in all, along with selected dates and times for free city centre parking, the festive offer in 2021 is about coming back to the high street and supporting your city centre, funded by ERDF and HM Government.

Preston's Christmas lights Pic: Tony Worrall
Preston’s Christmas lights Pic: Tony Worrall

Councillor David Borrow, Cabinet member for planning and regulation, said: “We are looking forward to a great festive season, as we continue to welcome residents and visitors back to Preston.

“Along with shopping, meeting friends and enjoying nights out, these events provide a something a little extra festive, suitable for all the family.

“We hope everyone safely enjoys what’s on offer in the city centre while supporting local businesses this Christmas.”

Read more: Christmas mini-markets to be held at Preston city centre cafe

Mark Whittle, Director of Membership Services & Preston City Centre BID Manager, said: “Prestonians missed out on a great deal during Christmas 2020.

“This year, we’re all committed to making it a memorable festive period for the right reasons. We’re pleased to be supporting the City Council in staging weekly events across the month, kicking off with BID’s Christmas Lights Switch On.

“City centre businesses will be doing everything possible to provide an enjoyable and safe experience for visitors this Christmas and we’d ask people to shop local, support local, and enjoy local.”



Read moreSee the latest Preston news and headlines

Will you be heading to any of the festive events? Let us know in the comments below.

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