Retford Christmas Market and Lights Switch-On, which looks like being the best ever, will be held on Sunday 21st November, from 10.00am to 6.00pm, in and around the Market Square in Retford.
There has been substantial interest so far, however there are still a few stalls and tables available – for details and a booking form, please contact organiser@retfordbusinessforum.org.uk.
The day is looking really exciting with a range of Christmas stalls, crafts, on-stage entertainment, and fireworks, plus the spectacular Retford Christmas lights and Christmas tree. There will be old favourites and some new attractions this year and more are still being planned, so why not come along and discover for yourselves? Here are some of the highlights:
- Santa will arrive at 12.00pm – thanks to the Retford Lions – and he will be in his grotto in the Town Hall during the afternoon, stepping out at 5.00pm to switch on the lights. He will need an assistant, and a lucky child will be chosen at random from entries completed at the grotto in a draw at 3.00pm.
- On stage, there will be the opening service at 11.15am, followed by entertainment from the Elizabethan Academy, Majestic Theatre School, Blue Ice Cheerleaders, The Performance Hub, Louise Clarkson Dancers, Jo Jingles, Jessica Mary Brett, and following the civic ceremonies, new local band, The Sods (all subject to confirmation).
- In Retford Town Hall, the Craft Fair will amaze visitors with a range of wonderfully crafted gifts… and the Mayflower WI will provide refreshments
- Grove Street provides some great attractions beyond the fairground – Bassetlaw Museum, the Pilgrims Gallery will be open, and Grove Street Methodist Church will have an even bigger Star Festival and music from the Salvation Army Band during the afternoon… and refreshments.
- St Swithun’s Parish Church will be holding its famous Christmas Tree Festival… and refreshments.
- A Fairground Organ will provide the atmosphere, and the usual range of excellent food stalls, cafes and restaurants will provide the sustenance.
- Out and about will be Rattlejag Morris and the Stormtroopers – look out for the snowglobe on Carolgate – new for this year and great fun
- Plus, don’t forget our excellent independent shops that will be open on the day – for example, get your Christmas gifts from Retford Arts Hub in Cannon Square and Wonderland Bookshop at the south of Carolgate.
Retford Business Forum is delighted to be working in partnership again with North Notts BID, which is not only providing financial support but is also helping with the organisation and delivery of the event this year.
Sally Gillborn, Chief Executive of North Notts BID, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Retford Business Forum with this year’s Retford Christmas Market and Lights Switch-on – it’s great to be able to stage this event again and it will really launch Christmas in the town centre.”
The Forum also welcomes the continuing support of Bassetlaw District Council, Retford Lions and other local businesses and societies. It is a community event run for the people of Retford and the surrounding villages, and visitors have been welcomed from all over Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire and Yorkshire and beyond!
The support of local individuals and businesses is vital to the success of the event and the team is always looking for supporters – please get in touch, they would be delighted to hear from you – please contact chair@retfordbusinessforum.org.uk. To become a member of Retford Business Forum please contact membership@retfordbusinessforum.org.uk or see www.retfordbusinessfoum.org.uk.