DAZZLING lights, markets, funfair attractions and more are set to spread Christmas cheer in Poole this year with a brand-new festival spanning six-weeks.
The first ever Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival will jingle all the way to various parts of the town from November 19 right through to January 2 – marking “the first year that Christmas will truly be celebrated throughout Poole”.
Organised by Poole BID, in partnership with BCP Council, the festival will showcase Poole from the Lighthouse to Falkland Square, along the high street, Poole Quay and even on the water with a range of festivities planned.
Christmas installations combined with a market, festive food, funfair attractions and street music combined with a flotilla of lights aims to celebrate Poole’s maritime history with a modern twist.
Poole BID has traditionally supported local activities such as the erection of Christmas trees, Santa on The Quay or improved Christmas lighting – however the upcoming festival will be their biggest undertaking yet.
Ahead of the six-week long event, Poole BID lead Jacqui Rock said: “I think that this year will be the first year that Christmas will truly be celebrated throughout the Poole BID area.
“The Festival is creating individual attractions along the entire length of the area with Christmas trees, market stalls and lighting attractions forming a continuous stream from the Lighthouse to The Quay.
“Poole has never have had such an extensive Christmas event that reaches across the whole of the town centre and spans six weeks. I’m particularly proud that it has been achieved without any increase in the budget from last year.
“Part of my role at Poole BID is to secure Grant Funding to underpin Levy Payer funds and this year I’ve matched the BID contribution with a grant which allows nearly £100,000 of investment into the festival.”
During August, engagement meetings are planned for the Poole BID Levy Payers, businesses, and stakeholders.
Georgina Bartlett, Poole BID director added: “We hope Poole businesses will take advantage of the opportunities the Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival presents. This is a positive commitment from Poole BID and BCP Council which should bring good footfall to the town at a key time.
“There will be plenty of possibilities for retail and hospitality to align their own Christmas activities with the festival and maximise every opportunity so let’s all get behind it.”
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