The countdown to Christmas gets underway as the season to sparkle begins, with lights starting to twinkle across the Borough of Havant.
With the spirit of Christmas wafting through the air, Havant Borough Council have installed Christmas trees and lights in six locations, with the added addition of dazzling lamppost motifs in all town centres too.
Each of the six metre (20ft) Norwegian Spruce trees will be glowing with a mix of cool and soft white lights and a bright star shining on top, overseeing the Christmas cheer!
Working in partnership with various community groups and local businesses, Havant Borough Council is supporting many Christmas events across the borough. Each tree will be switched on for the festive season on different dates, depending on the community event that has been organised.
Emsworth
Friday 28 November - Christmas lights will twinkle with a festive sing-along starting at 5.30pm, organized by the Emsworth Business Association.
Havant
Friday 5 December - Christmas light will sparkle with Santa and a sing-along from 4:30pm, organised by St Faiths Church.
Hayling
Saturday 6 December - Enjoy the Christmas Market at Mengham, organised by Mengham businesses & traders.
Leigh Park
Friday 28 November - Christmas lights will glisten from 5pm, organised by the Leigh Park Traders.
On Monday 22 December Santa's Grotto will be open from 1pm, in Mrs Clauses Curiosity Shop, Greywell.
Waterlooville
Thursday 27 November - Christmas lights will shine brightly from 5pm. Saturday 29 November a Christmas Market will be in the town centre between 10am and 4pm. These events will be run by the Waterlooville Community Events team.
Late night shopping and Christmas advent trails for children will be taking place throughout December and have been organised by the Waterlooville Business Association.
There will also be a Santa’s Grotto in Waterlooville library from Saturday 13 December until 24 December.
Councillor Gillian Harris, Cabinet lead for Regeneration and Communities, said, “The Christmas trees & lights aim to bring joy and comfort to residents, shoppers and traders in our town centres. We have selected a supplier that not only provides low-cost and eco-friendly lights but have designed a stunning display that all of our town centres will be proud of.
“While the council does not have responsibility for the events that are being held, we feel strongly that we should do what we can to support our local businesses, and the community to help our town centres look their best to attract shoppers back onto the high street.
“Business and community groups have done a fantastic job in organising events to make our main shopping areas feel vibrant, festive and a fun place to be for all the family.
“I encourage residents and visitors to attend as many of the events as possible to bring our communities together, supporting local businesses and creating magical festive memories.”