If, like me, you're looking forward to the Lighting Up Brentwood celebrations tomorrow (30th November) here are the details from Brentwood Borough Council of all the fun which is planned.
"Brentwood Borough Council is preparing to host its annual festive event on Saturday 30 November from 12pm to 6pm in and around Brentwood High Street. Some warm up acts will be up on stage from 12pm and the event will officially start at 12.15pm with a Santa Parade – where he will be pulled on his sleigh by Allen Ford from the junction with St Thomas’ Road, along the high street, accompanied by an array of dancers from Razzmatazz and musicians.
Stage performances will be hosted once more by Brentwood Baptist Church, who have been working with a number of fantastic local performers, schools and bands to bring visitors a packed programme across 3 stages:
- Main stage – outside Marks and Spencer
- West End – opposite O’Neil’s
- Choral area – at the Chapel Ruins
The event will culminate with the Christmas lights switch-on by the Mayor of Brentwood, Councillor Keith Parker, and the young winners of the Christmas Card competition at 5pm on the Main Stage.
Street acts will be performing across the High Street and inside the Baytree Centre, and will encompass a range of acts, from a festive Gorilla, stilt walkers and jugglers. Following popular demand after an hilarious appearance at the Baytree Centre last year, the Grinch will also be coming back to Brentwood.
Santa’s Grotto – hosted by The Rotary Club of Brentwood and will open on Saturday 30 December with bookable slots all the way through to Christmas Eve. Located within the Baytree Centre, all money raised will go to local charities. Visit www.santa-brentwood.co.uk
Children can enjoy fun fair rides and have a family photo in the Snow Globe. There will be a Santa Hunt in participating businesses across the High Street, Crown Street and Ropers Yard with some great prizes courtesy of Chicken and Frog Bookshop, where forms can be collected from. The Hunt will start on the day of Lighting Up and run until 16 December.
Santa Paws in Crown Street, bring along your dogs and have a festive photo in the photo booth, along with best dressed dog competition, festive food, puppachinos and Muffin Pug rescue, supported by Brentwood Business Partnership.
Stalls will line the High Street with gifts, food and drink from local charities and businesses. And be sure to pop into the many shops along the High Street, Crown Street and Ropers Yard to join in the many festive activities and promotions on offer.
Lighting Up Brentwood is a real staple on the community’s winter calendar with thousands attending each year. We have once again worked with some great community organisations and generous sponsors to bring residents a fun programme of entertainment and we hope that everyone enjoys the jolly atmosphere, supports local businesses, and joins us in celebrating the start of the festive season in Brentwood.’
Thanks, must go to our sponsors Brentwood Care Centre and Razzamataz. We would also like to thank Brentwood Baptist Church, Baytree Centre, the Brentwood Business Partnership, Vision, The Rotary Club of Brentwood, Keller Williams Estate agents, St Thomas' Church, the Conservators of Shenfield Common, Allen Ford, Trinity Church, St Thomas’ Church, Creatures Great and Small and Giggling Squid who has kindly sponsored the Christmas Tree in the High Street.
Visitors should be aware that Brentwood High St will be closed from 8am to 8pm and buses will be diverted to William Hunter Way and Ingrave Road. There is free parking at the multistory car park all day."