Bedford’s annual Christmas celebrations are back, bigger and brighter than ever! On Saturday, 23 November, the town centre will be transformed as we kick off the festive season with our highly anticipated Christmas Lights Switch-On.
The Christmas festivities will commence in Harpur Square from 12 noon with live performances on the BedfordBID / Love Bedford stage throughout the afternoon from school choirs, local bands, singers and dancers. Bedford BID town centre businesses will be adding an extra sparkle with Christmas lights enhancing the town centre this year.
Try your hand at Crazy Golf on Silver Square, free to the public courtesy of Bedford Borough Council (12–4pm) and be sure to capture a festive family photo under the BedfordBID / Love Bedford Christmas Wreath on Silver Square! The Christmas wreath has been made possible with funding from town centre businesses.
At 4pm, enjoy songstress Lissie Allsopp singing Christmas favourites leading up to the countdown for the lights switch on at 5pm.
The fun continues with a Christmas sing-along, led by Lissie, and then Local Radio host Steven Gordon-Wilson will spin modern Christmas tunes until 6.30pm.
Everyone should look out for a special QR code on posters at the event that leads to www.lovebedford.co.uk/offers-discounts. This will provide offers and discounts in local food and drink businesses in the town centre. It will also provide the opportunity to access a £5 discount for individual Snow White panto tickets at Bedford Corn Exchange…but act fast, this special panto offer is available for just 48 hours.
Father Christmas himself will make an appearance in the Harpur Centre and refreshments will be available on Harpur Square.
Councillor Andrea Spice, Portfolio Holder for Economic Growth, Planning and Prosperity, said: “Bedford’s Christmas Light Switch-On is always a great event and brings our community together. This event not only marks the start of the festive season but also helps support local businesses and boost our town’s economy. I encourage everyone to come along, enjoy the festivities, and experience the magic of Christmas in Bedford.”
“To make it easier for everyone to join in, don’t forget there’s free parking for up to four hours at Allhallows and Lurke Street car parks, or two hours of free parking every Saturday in all Council-operated town centre single and multi-storey car parks. There are also £2 bus fares and plenty of places to lock your bike – we are determined to make it as easy as possible for all residents to access Bedford town centre and enjoy the festivities.”
Bring your friends, family, and Christmas spirit to Harpur Square for a day of fun and joy as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.
