Christmas Tree Wonderland returns to Bournemouth
Close to a million people are expected to visit in the run-up to Christmas
Christmas Tree Wonderland and the popular Christmas Market are back in Bournemouth from today (Friday 17th November).
Thousands of lights will illuminate the Lower Gardens and the giant walk-through tree will make its iconic yearly return.
Locals can also get a taste of New York by skating around the open-air ice rink, surrounded by “twinkling illuminations”.
BCP Council's Head of Events, Jon Weaver, told us more and more people visit Bournemouth every year to experience the spectacle which is in turn boosting the local economy.
He said: “Events like this help support our local hospitality and retail businesses with people making a day of it, or even coming for a short break, so it’s great that these lights are continuing for a sixth year.”
Despite Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council facing a £44million gap in its finances, the local authority opted to keep Christmas Tree Wonderland for at least another year.
Jon Weaver said: “We generate a considerable amount of revenue by bringing the ice rink and the Christmas market to Bournemouth and a large proportion funding isn’t from the council, so in terms of value for money for the council it is pretty good.
Fiona McArthur, Coastal BID Manager said: “It is essential that events such as this continue not only because of the income and footfall generated, but also as this further helps secure Bournemouth’s place amongst the top destinations to visit in the UK.”
New for this year is a tunnel of light, walk-through Christmas Present and the appropriately named, Santa Express which will take families around the giant Santa illumination in front of the bandstand.
For those slightly older, mulled wine, hot chocolate and festive food and drink will be available at several stalls in the square.
Head of Events Jon Weaver said: “I love seeing young families and extended families come down in the evenings with their children or grandchildren, but also people coming down after work and going for a skate or going into the bars and hospitality venues.”