The countdown is on for the annual Bedford Christmas Tree Festival as it once again casts its spell over St Paul’s this December and sprinkles some festive magic for visitors of all ages.
From 4 – 8 December, the festival returns for its 24th year, featuring 68 glittering trees decorated by local community groups, schools and businesses on the theme of ‘The Magic of Christmas’.
Against this sparkling backdrop, a total of 42 choirs and other performers will entertain guests throughout the festival. On the evening of Friday, 6 December, Amici Music will perform music by Handel, Mozart and a selection of seasonal favourites. Tickets for the concert are £20 and include a glass of wine and a mince pie. Book your tickets at peoplesfundraising.com/concert-tickets
Tickets (£10) are also available for the ‘Fizz at the Festival’ private view on the opening night and can be booked by emailing treefestival@stpaulschurchbedford.org.uk or from the church office in St Paul’s Square.
Once again, visitors can vote for their favourite tree and children can win a book token by spotting the magical themes within the festival trees.
The event is a vital fund-raiser for St Paul’s Church and Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, with last year’s visitors donating a record-breaking £24,000 for the two charities.
“This year, with your help, funds will go towards refurbishing two dedicated cancer care side rooms on the children’s Riverbank Ward at South Wing,” said a spokesperson for the Bedford Hospital Charity and Friends. “These rooms will allow patients to receive rapid specialist treatment to combat infections, without having to travel further afield.
“The Festival requires immense dedication from some 330 volunteers and office staff to ensure that everything runs smoothly. The Committee is grateful to the Festival’s main sponsor, Jayne Beard Associates, and to many other sponsors, businesses and individuals. New volunteers are always welcome.”
Open Wednesday, 4 til Sunday, 8 December at St Paul’s Church, St Paul’s Square, Bedford MK40 1SQ
Opening hours: Wed-Sat 10am – 5pm / Sunday 12pm – 4pm
Entry £3 / Under 16s go free
