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Festive cheer to hit the streets of Cheltenham this Christmas

Thursday 26 November from 4pm
High Street and Promenade

Final preparations are underway for Cheltenham’s Christmas celebration on Thursday 26 November which will now be centred on the High Street and Promenade. The evening will launch late night shopping and the borough council’s free car parking offer at two town centre car parks.
From 4pm, families can look forward to outdoor entertainment to include Frozen characters Anna, Elsa and Olaf, as well Father Christmas and a host of local street entertainers, ahead of the Christmas lights being turned on in the town centre at 7pm.

Thomas Trilby, a Cheltenham regular is a stilt walker and juggler, offering plenty of comedy and interaction. A beautiful winter fairy will bring a touch of magic to the occasion, ‘giant’ elves will be bouncing up to heights of 1 metre off the ground and local band, Ola Samba will entertain shoppers with their high energy performance. Cheltenham Salvation Army band will also be playing Christmas hits and other brass band music.

This year is the first time that the festivities are to take place in one area because of redevelopment work in the town centre. Concerns relating to overcrowding contributed to the decision to move the light switch on activities from the Regent Arcade to the town centre.

Kevan Blackadder, town centre manager said: ‘’All of our celebrations will now take place on the High Street and Promenade with the Frozen characters likely to prove particularly popular.
‘’This year offers a great variety of acts to welcome in Christmas and light up Cheltenham ready for late night shopping. I hope that the free parking incentive and longer opening hours will benefit both shoppers and retailers alike.’’

The festivities mark the start of late night shopping every Thursday from 26 November through until 17 December, when many shops in the Regent Arcade and town centre will stay open from 9am until 9pm.

What’s more, shoppers can enjoy free parking from 5.30pm until 9pm on each of these Thursdays at Regent Arcade and Town Centre East car parks. The free parking and extended hours will also apply to Black Friday, when lots of shops will hold special offers on Friday 27 November.

The fun will continue on Saturday 28 November, as The Brewery hold their Christmas party from 5-8pm.