STEP back in time to a traditional Victorian Christmas in Wimborne complete with an outdoor rink and a packed programme of festive events for 2019.

In partnership with Wimborne BID, the town’s festive extravaganza promises something for everyone starting on Saturday, November 23 at 4.30pm when local school children will light up the town with the Christmas light switch on.

A new addition this year is the arrival of Wimborne’s outdoor rink on the Minster Green. The rink will provide the perfect magical Christmas setting with the Minster as a stunning backdrop. Other highlights include Dorset Etsy Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1, 10am to 4pm, at the Allendale Centre featuring more than 60 stalls with local designers, makers, vintage sellers and craft suppliers from across Dorset.

Small Business Saturday returns on December 7 where local small businesses will have festive offers and promotions. St John’s Church Christmas Celebrations will also take place on the same day from 10am.

The popular Alpine Bar is back in The Square from Thursday, December 12 where visitors can soak up the atmosphere with friends and family with a glass of mulled wine and a festive treat.

Wimborne’s Save The Children Parade returns at 2pm on Saturday, December 14, with a fun-packed family day of activities. The parade of floats and bands starts at Cobhams and weaves through the town ending at the Square. Father Christmas and the Snow Princess will also make an appearance.

Christmas Son et Lumiere also returns for its fifth year on Saturday, December 14. Watch the Christmas lights and video projected onto the Wimborne Minster accompanied by music supported by Radio Wimborne. The 20-minute show starts at 5.30pm and will be repeated throughout the evening.

The ever popular Carols in the Cornmarket takes place on Friday, December 20 at 6pm. Bring your friends and family for a traditional Christmas sing-along and why not stop by at one of the local cafes and pubs for a festive drink or mince pie.

Free parking will be available on November 23 , December 7 and December14 with further dates to be added.

* The Wimborne BID supports and represents businesses within the town. Working closely with the Town and District Council, the BID assists with funding through supporting events, business, advertising and helping to keep the town a welcoming place for visitors and locals. For more information, visit website wimborne.info