Community Christmas Lights Switch On

[box type=”info” align=”” class=”” width=””]We have made a mistake! Eagle eyed readers will have noticed the typo in the RH2 Uncovered magazine this month. Regretfully we have published the incorrect date for this event. The correct date is Saturday December 5th as shown below. Our sincere apologies. [/box]

Now there’s just six weeks to go until Santa arrives, the festive spirit is well and truly spreading through our region, with fayres, carol concerts and some truly magical events, all starting to take place. But, of course, Christmas just wouldn’t feel right, without the presence of the town’s lights and festive fayre – all organised by Reigate’s Business Guild.

This year’s fayre will take place on Saturday 5th DECEMBER , from midday and see forty stalls selling a selection of local and artisan produce, along with arts and crafts, as well as an entertainment stage and a food court, taking over Church Street. Then, at 5pm, the big switch on will happen with Mayor Joan Spiers and a top-secret celebrity helper pressing that all-important button.

Created in 1991, the local Business Guild raises the £15,000 needed to illuminate the town over the Christmas period, through fundraising events (including their annual golf day) and membership subscriptions. “The Guild have undertaken this commitment because there is no local council funding for this and we do not want our town to be dark over the festive season!” the Guild’s chairman, Warren Andrews told us.

“Throughout the year Reigate hosts many great events, but the Christmas Fayre is definitely the highlight! Many thousand people visit throughout the day and it is a great showcase for the town.”

“There is something for everyone, with many activities for the children – Father Christmas actually arrives by helicopter in Priory Park,” Warren, who is the owner of The Yew Tree pub, continues. “Along with fabulous stalls, entertainment and the switching on of the lights, it is a truly wonderful family day and a great way to get into the Christmas spirit!”

Put the date in your diary and we’ll see you there!