Christmas Fun in the Garden City

Following the lights switch on in late November, Christmas celebrations got into full swing on the 1st December.

Despite the rain Christmas shoppers were treated to live music, street entertainers, face painting and of course Santa’s Grotto was and still is a big attraction.

Organised by retailers in The Arcade, The Gallery and The Wynd, with support from the Heritage Foundation, the event added that little extra Christmas spirit to the town centre. The day began in bright sunshine with live jazz music, performed by The Gary Wood Jazz Quartet.

Undeterred by the now torrential rain, The Central Methodist Church Band and The Letchworth Garden City Band took to The Wynd stage in the afternoon, performing a host of Christmas classics.

Undercover in The Gallery, Christmas shoppers also benefited from live music performed by some of the Garden City’s top young talent. Along with fantastic street entertainers and the always popular face painting, Santa’s Grotto was the obvious big draw with many local children telling Santa what they want for Christmas.

Operated by Tumble Tent, Santa’s Grotto is now open every Saturday until Christmas, 10am-4pm. Admission is £3 including a special gift.

Looking ahead, there’s still many more exciting events to come this Christmas in the Garden City. Saturday 15 December sees the Farmers’ Market back in Leys Square plus a Christmas Funfair and Community Fair taking place on Broadway Gardens. Featuring music from The Letchworth Garden City Band, a scout parade, carol service, fun fair rides and visits from Santa.

Organised by Rap-Aid with Letchworth Lions, the fair will continue on Sunday 16 December with more community stalls, food vendors, mulled wine and children’s games and entertainment.

For more information on the Christmas events programme visit www.shopletchworth.com

Finally, Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.