A festive day of fun lies ahead in Bicester as the town prepares for the Christmas lights switch-on.

The event is set to take place this Saturday, November 25 in the town centre, with festivities beginning at 12 noon leading up to the evening switch-on.

During the day’s market event guests can enjoy a host of festive stalls selling arts and crafts, gifts, and food.

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A range of activities have also been organised, including street entertainers, toddler rides, stage performances and more from 1pm onwards.

MCs Sparky and Sprite are the hosts of the night on the big stage, with performances from local groups such as Adele Peters performing arts, Rock Choir, and some music with Russel Jones, a former X-Factor contestant.

There will be lantern-making workshops during the day followed by a lantern parade after dark.

The festive lights will be switched on at 6pm by the town mayor, councillor Harry Knight, and the winner of the mayor’s Christmas card competition.

Hundreds of people turned up to last year’s event in the market square to watch the live music performances, peruse market stalls and enjoy festive treats.

During the day the streets were lined with marquees of local organisations, including Bicester 1st Bicester Scout group, Help for Heroes and Bicester Athletic Club.

There were also small fairground rides for children, bubble-makers, balloon sellers, food stalls including candy floss and hotdogs, and a grinch roaming around.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1