Amesbury sparkled this Christmas season with the annual Festive Fair and the much-anticipated Christmas Light Switch-On, an event made possible by a collaborative effort between the Stonehenge Chamber of Trade and Amesbury Town Council.
Scheduled for Saturday, November 30, 2024, the event kicked off with a Christmas street market right in the heart of the town centre starting at 3:00 PM. The festivities offered a blend of local charm and holiday cheer, with stalls brimming with unique crafts, seasonal treats, and gifts, all under the watchful eyes of the community's enthusiastic traders and volunteers.
The highlight of the evening, the Christmas Light Switch-On at 7:00 PM, transformed Amesbury into a winter wonderland. This year's display was particularly special, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Stonehenge Chamber of Trade and Amesbury Town Council. Their partnership was instrumental in planning and executing an event that not only celebrated the season but also supported local businesses and community spirit.
The honor of switching on the lights was bestowed upon Alan Haggar, the Mayor of Amesbury Town Council. In a moment filled with anticipation and joy, Mayor Haggar, surrounded by an eager crowd, flipped the switch to illuminate the town with a dazzling array of festive lights. Father Christmas joined the mayor on stage, adding to the magical atmosphere and delighting children and adults alike. His presence symbolized the community's unity and the start of the holiday festivities, drawing cheers from the gathered crowd and signaling the official beginning of Christmas in Amesbury.
The musical entertainment was a highlight, featuring a variety of performances that kept spirits high. The Amesbury Town Band kicked off the celebrations with traditional carols, setting a festive mood that resonated through the streets. Following them, the Amesbury Community Soul Singers added a soulful twist to the evening with their renditions of holiday classics, warming hearts with their harmonious voices. The night was capped by the band Total Recall, whose energetic performance of pop and rock hits from various decades had everyone dancing, ensuring that the festive spirit was felt by all ages.
"The collaboration between the Chamber and the Council was pivotal," said Vicky Parks, Deputy Chair of the Stonehenge Chamber of Trade. "We worked tirelessly to ensure that this year's event was not just a spectacle of lights but a true community gathering that uplifted everyone involved."
The event featured Stokes Funfair, providing family-friendly entertainment with rides that added to the festive atmosphere. Local performers entertained with live music, fostering a sense of togetherness as residents and visitors alike enjoyed the holiday spirit.
Amesbury Town Council ensured that the event was accessible to all, focusing on inclusivity and safety, making sure that the joy of Christmas could be shared by each member of the community.
Kyle McCletchie, Chairman of the Stonehenge Chamber of Trade, highlighted, "This event was more than just switching on lights; it was about lighting up our community's heart. The partnership with the Town Council allowed us to expand our vision, bringing more joy and economic benefits to Amesbury."
The festivities didn't end with the switch-on. The Stonehenge Chamber of Trade had planned additional activities like Santa Sleigh runs and other community engagements to extend the holiday cheer throughout December. These initiatives were part of a broader strategy to enhance local tourism and support businesses during the festive period.
For more information on how the event unfolded and community feedback, visit the Stonehenge Chamber of Trade's website or check local community notices.
Comments