2023 promises to be another fun-filled festive season in Shaftesbury with something to suit all tastes and ages.
The final Shaftesbury Market of the year will take place on Sunday 26th November, 10am – 3pm and is the perfect place to pick up unique and handmade gifts for Christmas.
The Chamber of Commerce’s ever-popular Christmas Light Switch On and Late Night Shopping event will take place on Monday 27th November, 4pm – 8pm. St Peter’s Church is hosting a Shopper’s Carol Service from 6pm and will be serving mince pies and mulled wine.
Starting off the weekend is St Peter’s Church ‘Darkness into Light’ service at 6.30pm on Friday 1st December. Join them for a celebration of Advent, Christmas carols and poetry. For the younger ones, Shaftesbury Library will be hosting a fun-filled morning of Christmas songs, games and crafts with their Children’s Christmas Craft and Activity event on Saturday 2nd December, 11am – 12pm for 0-12 year olds.
Shaftesbury Arts Centre has a vibrant programme of events during December, including a Willow Weaving Workshop on Saturday 9th December, 9.30am – 12.30pm, where you will make your own luxury Christmas wreath and A Christmas Carol: In Concert on Saturday 16th December, 7.30pm – 9.30pm. This is a unique retelling of Dickens’ heart-warming tale using an array of traditional and modern instruments and musical arrangements. Take the children along to Santa’s Christmas Wish on Wednesday 20th December, 2pm – 3pm to enjoy a festive, musical adventure and meet and Father Christmas!
The Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Market will take place on Sunday 10th December, 10am -3pm.
St Peter’s Church’s Carol Service will take place on Sunday 17th December at 6pm.
And don’t forget, there will be free parking in Shaftesbury (normal restrictions apply) on Saturday 2nd December for Small Business Saturday and on Friday 22nd December for the last Christmas shopping day. We are fortunate to have an array of fantastic independent businesses and shops, so show them some love and use the opportunity to pick up those last-minute gifts.
Finally, St Peter’s Church will hold their Crib Service on Sunday 24th December at 4pm.