Christmas Market – ‘the ultimate combination of community and Christmas’

Crowds of shoppers returned to the streets of Chislehurst yesterday to support the Visit Chislehurst Christmas Market.  Supported by Lollipop Events, this was the first time that Chislehurst has closed its High Street to traffic, in order to bring the community together to celebrate the start of the festive season and the annual turning on of the Christmas lights.  The Chislehurst community prides itself on it’s local independent businesses, beautiful commons and heritage, all of which played a huge role in the success of this event.  With an estimated footfall of 12,0 00, the town was a buzz of excitement throughout the day into dusk as the community waited for the annual light switch on.

Local independent stall holders lined the High Street selling hand made crafts, food, mulled wine, sweets, gifts and more.  Children were entertained by ‘merry go round’, trampolining and toy donkey rides.  The Chislehurst Rotary Club supported the event with a visit from Father Christmas in his grotto, with free access to all children, whilst local schools and performing arts group, In the Wings Performing Arts, sang carols and performed.  The Chairman of Visit Chislehurst, Mike Jack, said ‘ we were absolutely delighted with the turnout out at our first festive event.  Our key aim at Visit Chislehurst is to bring the community together and encourage footfall across the local businesses who support the area’.  The High Street and Commons were buzzing with excitement, noise and festive spirit.

The Annual Christmas lights switch on took place with the winner of an art competition, 7 year old Mia, turning on the lights at 4pm.  The lights are funded by Chislehurst businesses, who pay annually for these lights. Mike continues, ‘Chislehurst is such a unique town and local residents take enormous pride in it, so we are extremely grateful for the support from everyone today for their time, effort and Christmas spirit.’