TAUNTON Town Council is preparing to bring festive cheer to Taunton in the run-up to Christmas.

Seasonal high-street lighting is up, along with a spectacular, locally sourced, Christmas Tree installed this morning by Wheeler and Son, with support from Somerset Council.

Standing at a magnificent 36 feet tall, outside the iconic Market House on Fore Street, the Christmas Tree has once again been generously donated by Langford Lakes Christmas Tree Farm, who have been supporting Christmas in Taunton this way for over a decade.

This year they have their own special event, as they host Enchantment – an illuminated trail, winding through the Christmas Tree forest, past dazzling lake displays. Booking is essential, you can find out more on their website.

Taunton’s Winterfest, organised by Ben De-Vey’s Family Fun Fair, supported by TTC grant funding, will take place on Sunday, 24 November between 10am and 8pm.

There is a programme packed full of free family entertainment, including Christmas markets, live performances, family activities and much more, leading up to the Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm by the Mayor of Taunton, Councillor Vanessa Garside.

She said: “The light switch on is one of those events that really brings people together in the town centre. I’m delighted to be here to kick off the Christmas celebrations in style.

We know that this event always attracts residents and visitors alike and we know that this is a boost to the local area.

“As well as the rides and market, the programme of live on-stage performances from local musicians is a fantastic showcase of local talent.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank our staff, partners, sponsors and everyone else involved for their support in helping us to bring the magic of Christmas to Taunton.”

Road closures will be in place on the day from 6am, to allow the safe management of the event.

Whilst the light switch on kick starts the festive calendar, there is plenty more to come, as TTC are delighted to support the Go Create fun festive trail; 12 hand painted wooden artworks, placed strategically around the town centre, with the added bonus of introducing people to local shops and businesses they may not otherwise have been aware of.

Its launch is on 24 November to coincide with Winterfest, and it runs throughout December.

TTC will also welcome a playful array of street performers, provided by Fuse, with delights such as candy canes on stilts, a wish fairy and glow spin performers. There will also be glow spin workshops for the public, running on December 14 in various town centre locations, make sure to follow us on Facebook to find out more.

Back by popular demand, TTC will be hosting choirs and brass bands to serenade shoppers in the High Street and the Taunton Independent Quarter (St James Street), building festive cheer every Saturday in December in the run up to Christmas.

As always, TTC also encourage talented musicians to come along and busk, remember, no licence is required to busk in Taunton, but there are helpful guidelines.