What's on in Highcliffe this Christmas
THOUSANDS of festive lights will bring sparkle to Highcliffe high street this year with over 20 decorated Christmas trees giving a fine atmosphere for present shopping.
The village’s main tree, which is positioned outside Tesco Express, will be switched on at 6pm on Saturday 3rd December to officially kick off the start of Christmas in Highcliffe.
It is the first time in two years that the popular event has taken place after the past two were cancelled due to Covid.
A toe-tapping ukulele band will keep people entertained during the ceremony while singer Sara Harris will also be performing a melody of songs guaranteed to put everyone in a festive mood.
Also putting in an appearance – and sure to bring a touch of mayhem – will be the Highcliffe Charity Players in their panto costumes.
This year’s production is Cinderella and will be at Christchurch’s Regent Centre from 27th-29th January next year, with tickets still available.
It's a chance for the children to get an early glimpse of Cinderella and Buttons who, along with the Fairy Godmother, will be visiting the village during the evening.
At the light-up ceremony there will be complimentary hot chocolate and mince pies to warm everyone up courtesy of Tesco.
The highlight of the evening’s proceedings will be the arrival of Father Christmas on his sleigh which has been hand made by volunteers from Christchurch’s Men’s Shed.
The shed is a group aimed at encouraging men to socialise by getting together to work on projects together using their joint skills while conquering isolation and loneliness.
Men's Shed secretary Robin Heels said: “It has been a pleasure to make Santa’s sleigh. It was a great project for the team to work on and we are sure it will get him to Highcliffe safe and sound.”
Having been whisked to the village, Father Christmas will be asking children what they are hoping he will bring them this year, while also giving out some gifts of his own.
Many shops will be open late for the switch-on evening so people can pick up a few festive goodies from the huge array of stores Highcliffe has, or just do a bit of window shopping enjoying the Christmas displays many have arranged.
Mulled wine will be available thanks to the Cliffhanger restaurant which will have a "beach hanger" on the high street where shoppers will also be able to get coffee, tea and soft drinks.
Lighting up the village is a job Highcliffe Action Team (HAT) has been doing for a few years. Comprising volunteers, they go the extra mile to make sure the village looks at its dazzling best for the festive season while also bringing a bit of happiness to residents.
This year they said they had received “generous” help from BCP Council and Highcliffe and Walkford Parish Council to make sure the village really shines.
HAT communications officer Jane Dean said: “Community spirit is alive and kicking in Highcliffe as plans forge ahead to ensure the return of the village’s Christmas light switch-on.
“Due to Covid, we haven’t been able to plan this wonderful gathering for the past two years and we are already receiving so much support for the evening.
“We welcome families to come along and for the children to meet Santa and have their photo taken by the stunning sleigh, beautifully crafted by Men's Shed.
“HAT has also been out on the high street filming their seasonal Christmas video. Once completed, this will be shared online at HAT’s Facebook page.
“The festive switch-on is an event that really shows community spirit still prevails and we are looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible.”
