ALL aboard – Rugby town centre is the destination for the Santa Express during a weekend of festive fun next month.
The town will host Christmas celebrations on Saturday December 13 and Sunday December 14.
The free Santa Express novelty train ride will run on both days, departing from the top of Sheep Street for ten-minute trips taking in sightings of Father Christmas and Alfie the Elf.
A lantern procession will be led around the town centre by a colourful samba band on the Saturday from 5.30pm, ending with hot chocolate, mulled wine and Christmas carols at St Andrew’s Church. Participants are welcome to bring their own lanterns or make one on the day at a free workshop at the church.
On the Sunday, Rugby’s first Christmas independent market takes place in Market Place, with stalls offering a range of Christmas gifts and festive treats.
The weekend will be accompanied by live music and appearances from Father Christmas and Alfie the Elf.
Rugby First Business Director Linda Lowne said: “I am really looking forward to this event as it has so many fun elements to it. The lantern procession is really magical, and I would love as many individuals, businesses, communities or groups such as Brownies, Beavers, Rainbows and schools to join the procession as well as make lanterns prior to or on the day.
“I am also really excited about our first independent market, and I would ask that you come and show your support for these businesses as well as those in the town centre.
“We still have a few stalls available so if you are aware of any local start-ups or small independent businesses that would be interested in having a free stall please get in touch.”
The events will take place on High Street, Sheep Street, Market Place and in St Andrew’s Church between 12noon and 6.45pm on the Saturday, and 11am to 5pm on the Sunday.
Visit www.rugbyfirst.org or email [email protected] for more information, to obtain a free lantern making kit or to book a stall.
