If the stress of the season leaves you feeling frazzled and irritated, take some time for yourself at Uxbridge town centre for the switching on of the Christmas lights.
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The event begins at 3pm on Saturday 16 November, is open to people of all ages and has been described as “a Christmas lights switch-on to rival the best of them!”
There will be a visit from one of the worlds most famous faces, Father Christmas himself! He will be accompanied by some of his favourite elves.
Father Christmas is set to arrive just before 6pm when the lights will be switched on illuminating Uxbridge with a sparkling Christmas glow.
There will also be festive face painting, balloon modelling, craft activities, fireworks, music from local bands and much more.
The Tinsel Town Christmas market will be opening on the same day offering an array of hot food and gifts in its assortment of alpine style chalets.
Following the light switch on, the celebrations will continue with a laser show which will light up the Uxbridge market house every night up until Christmas.
The Pavillions Shopping centre is also hosting its annual Carol Concerts on the 4th and 5th of December with both events starting at 5pm.
On the 13th, 14th and 15th December The Pavilions will also be host to a number of walkabout acts.
If you want to meet Santa, then head to his grotto in Uxbridge from the 30th of November. Tickets are £5 for those aged 3 and over and £3 for younger children.
Those visiting Santa in his grotto will receive: a Playmobil gift, a Christmas workbook and art activities. All proceeds from the grotto will go to Halo Children’s Foundation.
Halo is a children’s foundation that supports children and families with bereavement. They provide advice, information and hope to those dealing with the loss of a loved one. They hold monthly groups of expressive arts and play where children can mix play and develop in a safe and stimulating environment amongst others going through similar loss and grief. They aim to provide relief from the effects of bereavement to children up to 18 years old who have suffered the loss of someone close to them, this could include a parent, a grandparent, sibling, or close friend.