A NEW Christmas event will launch in Poole today.
The Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival will see illuminations shine bright throughout the town and along the quay until the new year.
Here’s everything you need to know about the attraction which is set to shine this festive season.
What is it?
Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival is being touted as Poole’s answer to Bournemouth’s popular Christmas Tree Wonderland attraction which is attended by thousands of visitors each year.
The nautical-themed event will start at the "gateways to Poole" - comprising Twin Sails Bridge, Hunger Hill and Lighthouse.
It will feature thousands of lights and light installations that will see visitors taken on a journey through Poole town centre.
When is it running?
The festival will start on Saturday, November 19, and run until Monday, January 2, 2023.
What can I see?
A trail will feature light installations including a 120-metre ‘under the sea’ light curtain, a giant anchor and a five-metre tall ship.
There will also be several lit-up Christmas trees ranging in size between 8 and 11 metres including the 'Falkland Square Deep Sea Tree', 'Magical Maritime Tree' and the 'Bobble Hat Tree'.
There will also be walk-through structures; a snowflake, lantern and bauble.
Plus, light projections and glistening overhangs.
There will also be lights at Hunger Hill and column lighting at the Twin Sails Bridge.
Where is the trail?
The trail will see visitors travel from Falkland Square through the High Street and onto Poole Quay, culminating at the "glistening lit-up harbour".
It will feature a total of 23 highlights.
![Bournemouth Echo: A CGI of giant anchor at the planned Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival. BCP Councik/Blachere]( "Bournemouth Echo: A CGI of giant anchor at the planned Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival. BCP Councik/Blachere")
A CGI of giant anchor at the planned Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival. BCP Councik/Blachere (Image: BCP Councik/Blachere)
What else is happening?
Organisers have said there are also plans for funfair rides, a Christmas-themed market selling "traditional fare" along with festive food and drink.
Poole Harbour will also be lit up with Gobo projectors positioned on four City Cruises festive boats, creating illuminating light illusions on the water as a unique feature of the festival.
Meanwhile, Choirs at Christmas will be performing at locations in Poole throughout the festive period, starting in Falklands Square at 2pm on Saturday, November 19.
How much does it cost?
The event is free to attend.
What has the council said?
Councillor Beverley Dunlop, member for tourism, culture and vibrant places, said: “Poole Christmas Maritime Light Festival will be a spectacular event on land and in the harbour, across the High Street and Quay bringing joy to thousands of residents and visitors every week, at the same time supporting local business and hospitality.
“I'm immensely proud that we have created this new and unique event for Poole of dazzling light installations to bring festive cheer to the town during these challenging times.”
Where can I find out more?
For a trail map and to read more, visit poole-christmas-maritime-light-festival.co.uk/
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