A magical Christmas event is set to return to west Dorset – with residents encouraged to get involved.
Bridport Christmas Cheer is back on Wednesday, December 4, from 4pm-8pm.
This also means that the Christmas Shop Window Competition is returning to the town with businesses encouraged to get involved and embrace the festive spirit.
Last year, the team at T. Snook Hatters and Outfitters in West Street received the cup for Bridport’s Best Christmas Shop Window from the former mayor Ian Bark. The shop was chosen for the accolade by a community vote.
Sue Darling of T. Snook said: “The Christmas windows in the town are spectacular – all of them, everyone makes such a good effort.
“It is a great competition, and the shops really go all out which is fabulous.”
The display came out on top thanks to their top effort, which included tinsel around the windows, a white tree taking centre stage, festive lights and an assortment of baubles.
In the past, Sue has spent around 12 months planning the window display as ‘winter hats are made in the summer’ and need to be ordered in and around February and March – this means that the team is already planning their Valentine's and Easter displays.
All town retailers and businesses are automatically entered into the competition and the winner is voted for by local residents.
Bridport residents are also being encouraged to dress up their doors to welcome the Christmas cheer.
To enter, all you need to do is take a photo of your decorated front door and email it across with your name, address and contact details to Bridport.tic@bridport-tc.gov.uk by Friday December 13. The winner will receive a Christmas hamper.
To vote please visit www.bridportandwestbay.co.uk or collect a voting slip from Bridport TIC. The closing date is Friday, December 13.
In west Dorset, the main Christmas Cheer event will include the all-exciting light switch on to be held at 6pm by the Mayor.
There will be an abundance of street stalls, arts and crafts, and local food. Stalls will line the streets as well as inside Bridport Arts Centre and the Town Hall.
The festive event is set to kick off at 4pm with local school choirs singing carols in Bucky Doo Square.
This will be followed by a full programme of entertainment and live music in the square. Local businesses and hospitality venues will also be opening late to welcome customers.
The United Church in East Street will again be hosting the Christmas Tree festival with sparkling and illuminated trees.
Terri Foxwell of Bridport Christmas Cheer Committee said: “Bridport Christmas Cheer promises to offer a wide range of festivities and Christmas celebrations for each and every one to enjoy.”
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