Community Christmas tree festival opens its doors
THE ninth Loughborough Community Christmas Tree Festival opens its doors to the public today (Wednesday, November 27), at 10am and runs until this Sunday, December 1.
It showcases more than 110 glittering trees of all shapes and sizes, imaginatively and beautifully dressed all in the magnificent setting of the medieval parish church of All Saints with Holy Trinity in Steeple Row.
Bridget Towle, the festival organiser, said: “As in past years the trees are provided by local community groups and businesses and offer a great starting point for the festive season.
“We hope many people will come along during the festival - we have a late opening until 8pm on Friday night, November 29, with families in mind.”
On Thursday, November 28, at 7.30pm there will be a charity concert featuring the Ratcliffe Chorale and the Loughborough Male Voice Choir when all proceeds from ticket sales (on the door - £10 including refreshments) will go to the Falcon Support Services, one of the parish church’s charity partners.
Throughout the festival there is the opportunity to enjoy great refreshments and a range of stalls, including a raffle, bookstall, tombola and a bespoke gift stall.
Friday evening’s late opening with last entry at 7.30pm is designed to give families a chance to enjoy the festive atmosphere while children can complete a quiz.
On Saturday evening, November 30, at 8pm folk carols and foaming ale will see the church return to its medieval roots of great carol singing along with a folk band.
A bar and refreshments will be available with entry at £5.
The event is led by the Grand Union Folk Club with Moggy in the Wood. Tickets for both Thursday and Saturday nights are available on the door.
On Sunday at 4pm children and their families gather for a great community carol singalong when the winner of the Church Christmas card competition, run with local primary schools, will be announced.
Entry to the festival at all other times is £2.50 for adults with accompanied children free.