Swineshead is preparing for one of its biggest festive weekends yet, with the Christmas Market, church events and annual parade all returning, and organisers are warning residents to be on the lookout, as a mischievous Grinch is set to appear across both days.
Festivities begin on Saturday 13 December, when the Swineshead Christmas Market opens in the Market Place from 12pm to 6pm. Visitors can expect a bustling selection of stalls and attractions, including:
- Fair rides
- Hog roast, pizza, burgers, sweets and cakes
- Craft stalls
- Santa’s Grotto with a free gift for every child
- Local businesses
- Mulled cider
- Children’s game corner
Throughout the afternoon, Santa will be greeting families, while the Grinch is rumoured to be sneaking around the Market Place causing festive mischief, adding a playful twist to the celebrations.
In addition to the outdoor market, stalls will also be located inside both the church and the church hall.
Inside the church, visitors will find:
- Shining Star Illuminations
- 30 gift, craft, food and game stalls
- art exhibition featuring more than 50 original works for sale
- Mary Christmas Fun House for big and little kids
- Big Mary’s Café, serving hot and cold drinks, hot dogs, burgers with onions, sweet treats and mince pies
A full road closure will be in place from 6am on Saturday to ensure the safety of visitors, stallholders and performers throughout the day. Residents are advised to plan ahead.
The celebrations continue on Sunday, when the village’s much-loved Swineshead Christmas Parade steps off at 3.30pm. Santa Claus will tour the streets in his brightly lit sleigh — towed this year by a 4×4 kindly donated by Swineshead-based car dealership Strategic Vehicle Solutions. Families will also be able to track Santa’s journey in real time, ensuring they don’t miss his arrival.
Joining the parade, and likely causing more chaos, will be the mischievous Grinch, bringing cheeky antics and festive fun to spectators along the route.
Organisers say this year’s event promises to be their biggest and most magical yet, uniting the whole community for a weekend filled with tradition, entertainment and festive joy.
For full details, parade routes, stall information and live updates, search “Swineshead Christmas Festival” on Facebook.
