It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas in Peterborough – with the city’s festive celebrations well under way.
Thousands of people packed into Cathedral Square on Friday for the city’s Christmas lights switch-on, where crowds got the chance to see the city’s new 40 foot Spruce Christmas tree all lit up for the first time.
There was some great entertainment hosted by breakfast show presenter Kev Lawrence from BBC Radio Cambridgeshire and we even ended up on Look East as Pusey dropped by as it was Children in Need night.
The event was sponsored by Vodafone Gigafast and Rocket Kid also took to the stage along with former Eastenders star Ricky Groves from the Cresset panto Cinderella, the panto Dame from the Key Theatre panto Beauty and the Beast and some talented local entertainers.
As part of the festive celebrations, a Christmas Market has opened on Cathedral Green and this will run right through until December 28.
The market also opens on Cathedral Square on Tuesday November 26 and will feature a cool Ice Bar, Santa’s Grotto and over 30 stalls selling festive food, drinks and goods from all over the world.
Families can also enjoy carousel rides and the chance to meet some real reindeer.
Councillor Steve Allen, Peterborough City Council’s cabinet member for recreation, said: “The city centre is being transformed into a winter wonderland and it’s fantastic to see.
“The lights switch-on was a big success and we’ve had many positive comments about our new real tree.
“The Christmas Market is already up and running in Cathedral Green and I would urge anyone who hasn’t been yet to pop along.
“Next Tuesday, the market will also open in Bridge Street near the Cathedral Gates and I’m sure everyone who visits will come away feeling very festive.”
ESP was there to capture the action and you can see more pictures in our Christmas issue out from November 27 – it’s packed with all the festive fun and entertainment to keep you busy this December.
Photos: Chris Brudenell for ESP Magazine