The summer season has just started, but one town council has already got its eye on the festive season.

Bicester Town Council has launched ticket sales for its Christmas lights trail, in Garth Park, which will take place from December 3 to 18.

It comes after last year’s inaugural lights trail had residents asking for more.

Councillors have listened to the feedback and have decided to stage a second festive lights trail, which will be an altogether bigger event.

Visitors can walk around Garth Park and see the grounds and council’s headquarters Garth House adorned with light displays.

Festive songs will play, festive messages will be displayed on the house and the park will be a sea of colour.

The trail will be buggy and wheelchair friendly.

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Alongside the lights trail will be a Christmas market selling festive gifts, food and drink – the call for stall holders has gone out.

Bicester’s Mayor Alex Thrupp said: “We are delighted to be bringing back the festive lights trail.

“It was one of the most popular events last year and feedback from residents was overwhelmingly positive.

“The park looked stunning last year and this year we plan to make the lights trail event better.

“Yes it feels far too early to think about Christmas, but we know people do start to plan their festive fun early.

“By buying your tickets early you are guaranteed your preferred date and time.

“We know families are struggling due to the current cost of living crisis and to help we have kept the ticket price the same as last year.

“We would love to see as many people as possible join us for this event and get their Christmas off to a great start.”

Slots will take place every 30 minutes and run from 4.30pm until 9.00pm.

Tickets cost £5 for adults, £2.50 for young people aged six to 16, and fives are free.

Last year saw thousands of people turn up to an event organised by Bicester Town Council and OneBicester, which involved a host of activities including ice skating, a mini fun fair, nativity animals and a Christmas market in the Methodist Church Hall.

Local groups performed during the day on a stage set up in Market Square.

These included the mini police from Glory Farm School, dancers from Just Dance, ECU Cheerleaders and performances by Rhythm Street, Rock Choir and James Farrant.

Sparky and Sprite also made a welcome return to compere the show.

Last year also saw OYAP deliver its lantern-making session, which invited people into Studio2, at the former St Edburg’s School, to take part in a workshop.

 

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This story was written by Matthew Norman, he joined the team in 2022 as a Facebook community reporter.

Matthew covers Bicester and focuses on finding stories from diverse communities.

Get in touch with him by emailing: Matthew.norman@newsquest.co.uk

Follow him on Twitter: @OxMailMattN1

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