MARVELLOUS markets, ice skating and fabulous light displays are just a few festive activities taking place in the Cirencester area this week to get you in the Christmas spirit.
There is so much going on around the Cotswold capital in the next few days leading up to Christmas, so here is a list of some fun outings the whole family can get involved with.
1) Snowman trail
This winter Cirencester Town Council has organised a Snowman Trail and Community Art Project.
Nine willow snowmen are currently hidden around the town centre to encourage Cirencester residents to get out and about and explore the town's range of independent businesses.
The snowmen were built in workshops led by Chris Oakley, of Oakey Bear Outdoor Learning, and are decorated with colourful winter accessories courtesy of The Churn’s Stitch Knit & Natter Group.
The trail is free to enter and participants will get the chance to win exciting prizes donated by local businesses such as Mudbear Golf and the Barn Theatre.
Entry forms are available at Cirencester's Local Information Centre, Cirencester Town Council's website, Bingham House, all the businesses hosting a snowman and by scanning the QR codes on the snowmen and posters.
The closing date for this competition is Saturday, January 6.
2) Visit Christmas light display and model village in Stratton
The spectacular Christmas light display and model village in Vale Road, Stratton is a family favourite.
Robin and Pauline Sollis have transformed their front garden (GL7 2JJ) into a winter wonderland to raise money for charity.
Families from across the district come to see the huge Christmas model village inside their garage - which now encompasses more than 2,000 pieces - every year.
Visitors are welcome to view this impressive Christmas display between 4.30pm and 8pm everyday until the first week of January.
The couple will be collecting cash or credit card donations for charity.
3) Cotswold Reindeer Herd
This unique Christmas experience in Ampney Crucis (GL7 5RS) allows families to meet reindeers up close.
After feeding the reindeers, visitors can walk through a forest of real Christmas trees and take a selfie on a sleigh.
There is also a shop/café onsite which offers hot drinks plus a range of unique cards and gifts.
General tickets cost £12, to book visit tinyurl.com/2pdk4573
4) Christmas Markets
A plethora of marvellous markets have been organised by Cirencester Town Council for the festive season.
Three Christmas Gift Markets will be held in the Market Place on Tuesday, December 19, Wednesday, December 20 and Thursday, December 21 between 9am and 5pm.
In addition, local food produce vendors will be offering an abundance of delicious Christmas treats at the Festive Farmers' Market in the Market Place between 9am and 2.30pm on Saturday, December 23.
5) Ice skating
The cold weather calls for woolly hats and scarves and what better place to wear them to than an ice rink.
Lucky for you there are two ice rinks near Cirencester, one at the Gateway in South Cerney (GL7 5TL) and another at Jolly Nice Farmshop in Frampton Mansell (GL6 8HZ).
Whether you are a skating pro and just a beginner this is a great activity for all ages.
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