The heart of Cowes will come alive with festive cheer on Saturday 22nd November as the town hosts its much-anticipated Christmas Celebration Day.
Organised by Cowes Town Council, this free community event promises a magical day for all ages with live music from local musicians from midday, walkabout entertainment and a family lantern glow walk. The day will conclude with the town’s Christmas lights switch-on at 5pm.
Two Christmas Markets
There will be two Christmas Markets showcasing local crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats:
- Pontoon View from 11am – 4.30pm, featuring a log fire with toasted marshmallows, hot roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, mince pies, live music and a photo opportunity with Father Christmas and his elf.
- Bar 46 from 5pm – 9pm, featuring artisan stalls, mulled wine, mince pies, and a festive barbeque.
Local retailers from Bath Road to Medina Road will be offering one-day-only promotions to make the day extra special with free gifts and treats on offer too.
Christmas Fair
Cowes Library will also host a Christmas Fair between 10am to 2pm with homemade produce, a tombola, guess the weight of the cake competition and a children’s craft activity between 10am – 12 noon.
Lantern Glow Walk
Families wishing to join the Lantern Glow Walk through the town should head to The Parade at 4.15pm to meet The Grinch.
The Glow Walk will move off at 4.30pm and conclude at the bottom of Shooters Hill in time for the town’s Christmas lights being switched-on by the Mayor at 5pm.
Marching band and mince pies
Onlookers will be able to enjoy festive tunes from the Vectis Corps of Drums Marching Band and free mince pies.
The Town Council has organised free parking for the event at Brunswick Road Car Park, Cross Street Car Park and The Parade between 12 noon and 6pm.
Ellis: There is something for everyone at this event
Cowes Mayor, Councillor Stuart Ellis said,
“We are delighted, this year, to be able to extend our annual Christmas light switch-on event to be a full-day of free entertainment and festive fun.
“There is something for everyone at this event with exclusive offers on food and drink, discount opportunities for shoppers and free entertainment for children and families.
“This is a wonderful opportunity to support local businesses, enjoy festive fun with the family, and kick off the holiday season in true Cowes style.”
Window spotting competition
A window spotting competition will begin in the town from Friday 15th November.
Entry forms can be collected from Chiverton’s, Hursts and Rosalie’s and must be returned to the same shops by Monday 15th December for a chance to win some special prizes.
Visitors from the mainland can take advantage of a one-day special Red Jet day return fare from Southampton to West Cowes for just £13.50 per adult and £6.70 per child.
Further details about the event can be found on the Town Council’s Events Facebook Page.
News shared by Andrea on behalf of Cowes Town Council. Ed
