TWO Santa parades, a fairground, a light switch on and more will mark the start of a month-long Christmas celebration.

The schedule for the opening day of Ringwood’s Winter 'Wanderland' celebration has been released, accommodating a full day of fun on Sunday, November 28, after a one-year absence.

Kicking off the event will be the first of two Santa parades which takes place from the Furlong at 11.30am.

Following this from 12 noon until 6.30pm a market will be open from the High Street to the Market Place, as will a small fairground – also located in the Market Place.

In the nearby Star Lane, a Christmas grotto with reindeer will run from 12 noon until 5pm, giving youngsters the chance to meet Santa. Organisers say that Santa must leave by 5pm and recommend visitors queue no later than 4.00pm so as not to be disappointed.

Tickets for the grotto cost £3 per child, with a free gift given as well.

Also starting at 12 noon is the Ringwood and Burley Band, performing music for visitors in the High Street until 5pm.

Back to the Market Place and visitors will be treated to a feast of stage entertainment from 2pm to 6.15pm.

A range of performers will be on stage as follows:

  • 2pm: Churches Together Scratch Choir and Youth Band
  • 3pm: The Tuesdays Community Singing Group
  • 3.45pm: Tommy Ryan – Sounds Like Bublé
  • 4.45pm: The Rock Choir
  • 5.30pm: Scarlet Swing

Throughout portions of the afternoon, a group of street entertainers will perform 30 minute Steamship Circus Walkarounds in parts of the town.

Following the second Santa parade at 5.30pm again from the Furlong, the big switch on ceremony for the Christmas lights will take place at 6pm to close the evening.

The next day will see a Christmas window competition held which is open to all shops, businesses and organisations in the town. Members of the public will be able to vote for their favourite decorations.

The event is organised by Ringwood Town Council. Town mayor Cllr Tony Ring said: “Having had such a grim few months, we look forward to creating a truly festive Christmas season for our residents and others to enjoy.”