Councillors to review Christmas events

Town Councillors are to explore and examine the recently held Kicking off Christmas events at their next meeting.

The Economy & Environment Committee of Newtown & Llanllwchaiarn Town Council is set to discuss the comprehensive report on the immensely successful "Kicking off Christmas" event.

According to the report, written by the Town Council's Development Officer, the decision to kick off the festivities an hour earlier proved to be a masterstroke, allowing visitors to explore the town center before the official commencement and ensuring a family-friendly conclusion at 6pm. The well-attended Illuminated Bike Parade, featuring over 140 participants, injected vibrancy into the celebrations. The Elf Trail and Festive Window Wonderland extended the festivities throughout December, transforming the town center into a magical holiday spectacle.

Strategic event logistics, including hosting the event in the town hall grounds, facilitated a smooth execution. The marquee stage placement provided an excellent backdrop for spectators, and the diverse performances resonated with attendees of all ages. The invaluable support from volunteers, local businesses, and community groups enhanced the event's depth, creating a true sense of community spirit.

The report highlights things which worked well, which included:

• Impressive attendance reflected the community's enthusiasm for the event.
• Timing allowed visitors to explore the town center, enhancing the overall experience.
• Efficient use of space in the town hall grounds kept major streets clear for the bike parade.
• Free parking contributed to the accessibility of the event.
• Strong community support from volunteers, local businesses, and organizations.
• Fringe events, such as the Festive Window Wonderland competition and Elf Trail, drew significant participation.

However, not all things worked according to plan. The report states a number of recommendations for improvement. These include:

• Explore the installation of a Christmas tree or lighting in town hall grounds.
• Consider adjusting the timing of the bike parade for a more impactful arrival.
• Assign staff to record videos and capture crucial moments.
• Prioritize the welfare of animals, including donkeys.
• Consider introducing speakers in High Street and Broad Street for a more inclusive town center experience.
• Leverage the new town partnership for incentives, loyalty schemes, fundraisers, or other collaborative ideas.
• Expand the concept of Santa's Grotto at Hafan yr Afon to attract more families into the town.

As stated in the report, the "preferred setting for the event by many members of the public" appears to be High Street and Broad Street. However, moving the event back to these streets is not listed in the recommendations for improvement at the 2024 event.

These recommendations will be discussed by town councillors, ensuring that Kicking off Christmas 2024 builds upon the successes of its predecessor, creating a memorable and inclusive community event.