Concerts by candlelight, festive wreath making and shopping locally, here are some of the festive events happening in and around Shaftesbury this Christmas
Christmas Lights: Shaftesbury’s festive season starts on November 28 with the turning on of the Christmas lights and late-night shopping (4pm – 9pm). The lights are switched on at 6pm, there’s also a Grand Parade, Father Christmas in his grotto, there’s music from the town band, and various pop-up stalls in Swans Yard.
Magic of Christmas Food and Craft Fair: Held at Riversmeet Leisure Centre, in nearby Gillingham, there are over 60 stalls selling a range of handmade items, from bath products, candles and art to cheese, cakes and gin. Live music and children's play area. Fair runs from 10am to 4pm. Free entry.
Christmas Crafting for Children: Shaftesbury Library are holding a couple of free festive crafting sessions for children. Make a Father Christmas advent calendar in the first session (Nov 26), and there’s a Christmas Tree Craft and Story Activity in the second session (Dec 3) both run 10.30-11.30am. Under 8s must be accompanied. More details 01747 852 256.
Shaftesbury Christmas Market: Taking place on Shaftesbury High Street on December 18, hunt down made in Dorset gifts from food and drink to handmade crafts and art, then browse some of the many fabulous independent shops in this town such as Folde Dorset, Mine Boutique, Pamplemousse, Willow and The Botanical Candle Co.
The Spoonfeds Christmas Pudding: Support your local Arts Centre whilst getting into the Christmas spirit at this free gig at Shaftesbury Arts Centre on December 18. Enjoy The Spoonfeds a Capella take on festive songs with some sing-alongs and community carols. Tickets are free, you need to book in advance, donations for the Arts Centre welcomed. shaftesburyartscentre.org.uk
Christmas Wreath Workshop: Join Shaftesbury-based freelance florists Emily and Annie for this three-hour workshop where you will create a fabulous festive wreath to take home. All materials are supplied and there’s a glass of fizz on arrival at this event at The Assembly Room at the Grosvenor Arms. Places limited, dates Nov 27 & 30, Dec 4. grosvenorarms.co.uk/events
Noël: A Concert by Candlelight: Pianist Alex Wilson explores 300 years of Christmas songs and folk traditions from across Europe at St Peter’s Church, Shaftesbury on December 9. With music from the UK to Romania, taking in everywhere in between, there’s also the world premiere of Dorset composer Sadie Harrison’s piece Shchedryk (The Little Swallow) based on seasonal Ukrainian melodies. alexwilsonpianist.com/noeumll.html
