There is so much going on this Christmas in and around Richmond so here is a run-down of everything you need to know.
Richmond Theatre hosts Aladdin, and who better to be in pantomime than Christopher Biggins?
Biggins will also be turning on this year's Christmas lights in Richmond Town Centre tonight (November 24) where there'll be Christmas Carols, a fantastic brass band, The Rock Choir, outdoor and indoor markets, pony rides, a vintage car show, children’s entertainment, dressed-up doggies, Santa’s grotto and the return of the much-loved helter skelter.
What other dates should you put in your diary?
Twickenham Lights Switch-On - November 26
Twickenham’s family friendly Christmas Light Switch On is back for another festive fun-filled Sunday. Diamond Jubilee Gardens has free live shows with Gruffalo illustrator Axel Scheffler reading, drawing & signing copies of his latest book and The Gruffalo himself will be popping in for a visit.
Kew Sparkle - December 1
There will be entertainment for all – carousels and teacup rides for the young ones as well as a rifle range and Santa’s Grotto.
There will be many stalls, skilfully brought together by Kew Village Market stall experts with a wide range of Christmas gifts, homemade food and tantalising mulled wine and mince pies.
Hampton Square Light Switch On - December 13
Celebrate the first weekend in December at Hampton Village Christmas Light switch on.
There will be lots of festive inspiration as well as an opportunity to buy those special gifts early from local traders. There will be live music, a raffle and Santa will be touring the village by train before arriving at his grotto in Station Road. This free event takes place on Sunday 4 December from 4 to 7pm at Hampton Village Green.
Ice Skating
Hampton Court Palace from November 24 to January 7 - This year Hampton Court Palace has a bigger rink for your skating enjoyment, early morning and weekend skate sessions.
Prepare to be swept away by the seasonal atmosphere of the stunning 1040m² ice rink. Skate against a backdrop of one of the greatest palaces on earth. Go to Thehamptoncourticerink.co.uk
Markets
Richmond Town Christmas Market is being held on December 3 from 10am to 4pm. There will be festive treats all day for the whole family to enjoy, an eclectic mix of stalls and market areas. Sellers will provide you with everything you could possibly need to bring all the festive cheer this year, such as handcrafted goods, food stalls and gift ideas. There will also be live entertainment, carols and popular music.
Concerts
There will be a Festive Concert at Clarendon Hall on December 1. The lineup includes music from the Richmond Music Trust, Fulham Brass Band and the newly re-established Richmond Brass Band.
Films
Fans of the film Frozen can rejoice, as there is a sing-along event at the Twickenham Exchange on December 16. There will be free glitter face painting from 10am and the screening starts at 11am.
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