CHRISTMAS 2016: Ilminster’s Victorian Night is upon us once more

THE Christmas festivities officially get underway in Ilminster on Friday (November 18, 2016) when the town’s famous festive lights are switched on during the annual Victorian Evening.

This event has been going on for more than 25 years and is generally acknowledged to be the best Christmas event among the market towns in South Somerset.

During the day, there is a rolling programme of Christmas songs provided by local schools in the Market House.

The main festivities kick-off at 6.30pm with a Lantern Parade of over 100 lanterns, led by Father Christmas in his environmental-friendly eSleigh - sponsored by mobility scooter suppliers Electric Mobility - after all he is several centuries old at least).

The Lantern Parade will arrive at the Market Square just before the fabulous Christmas Lights are switched on at 7pm.

After the spectacular switch-on many of the town's shops are open offering special discounts and some will be providing a cheering Christmas drink and possibly a piece of cake.

So come along and get your Christmas shopping off to a flying start. Many people combine this with checking out the brilliant Shop Window competition, this year on the theme of A Winter Wonderland.

There will be three bands, including those from HMS Heron and the Salvation Army, several choirs, the Martock Puppets with their fun performances, a Santa's Grotto in the Ile Youth Club, a terrific Christmas Fair in the Parish Hall and other stalls in Swan Precinct.

Meanwhile the children can enjoy a large fun fair with many rides and there will be great hot foods and sweets.  For adults the Ilminster Lions Club will be providing warm seasonal drinks from two bars, while the town’s restaurants and pubs will also be open. 

Tags:
Leisure.