Christmas countdown is on with festive family fun across Bedford Borough

As the festive season draws near so do the start of Christmas events across the Borough with a full list of festive fun to look forward to.

Bedford Lights Switch-On

The free Bedford Lights Switch-On event returns to Harpur Square in Bedford town centre on Saturday, November 21, starting at midday. The Christmas lights will be turned on at 5pm by Bedford mayor Tom Wootton.

There will also be live entertainment during the event including:

> Bedford Youth Community Gospel Choir: midday-12.15pm

> Bedford Rock Choir: 12.25pm to 12.40pm

> Junior Spotlight Singers from Castle Newnham School: 12.50-1.05pm

> Song Squad performing arts: 1.15pm to1.30pm

> Stagecoach Bedford Borough: 1.40p to 1.55pm

> Donna Samuels: 2pm to 3pm

> Funk Odyssey: 3pm to 4pm

> Laura Menozzi and friends: 4pm to 5pm

> Christmas lights switch-on and sing-along with Laura Menozzi and friends: 5pm to 5.15pm

> DJ with Bedford Radio: 5.15pm to 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, November 29 at the Saxon 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, December 5b from 10am-5pm, and on Sunday, December 6 from 10am-4pm.

There will be a variety of stalls offering unique Christmas gift ideas, 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 December 6 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.

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.”