Christmas cheer has filled the streets of towns right across Caerphilly County Borough, with the festive period very much underway.
Record-breaking crowds flocked to Bargoed on November 29 for the town’s annual Christmas market.
Almost 7,000 people visited the festive extravaganza, which boasted more than 20 stalls, street entertainers, funfair rides, children’s entertainment and real reindeer.
Cllr David Carter, Mayor of Caerphilly County Borough and representative for Bargoed, said: “It was brilliant to see so many visitors and residents visiting this year’s Bargoed Christmas Market and supporting businesses in the town. It contributed to a carnival atmosphere and some real festive spirit in the run up to Christmas.”
The festive fun continued on Saturday December 6 when hundreds of residents and visitors descended on Risca for its market and lantern parade.
The event was held in partnership with Risca West and East Community Events Group, and saw crowds well in excess of 3,000 turn out to enjoy some festive cheer at Tredegar Park in the town centre.
Visitors of all ages enjoyed browsing through over 20 food, craft and charity stalls in the park, as well as supporting local traders on the high street during their crucial pre-Christmas trading period.
Youngsters enjoyed an extra special visit to see Father Christmas in his grotto, before the main man himself led a procession of people with brightly coloured lanterns through the park to its finale at the Christmas tree, for carols.
Cllr Ken James, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Sustainable Development said: “It was wonderful to see so many people of all ages enjoying themselves at this annual event in the heart of Risca, while supporting local businesses in the town and stallholders at the same time.
“It is fantastic to see that our programme of festive events across Caerphilly County Borough is proving as popular as ever again this year.”
Caerphilly town will host its Christmas Fayre this Saturday and Sunday (December 13 and 14).
From 9am to 5pm on Saturday and 10am to 4pm on Sunday, the fayre is open to the public for free.
Over 100 traders will adorn the town along with a farmers’ market and continental market, in addition to activities and entertainment for visitors to enjoy.
Caerphilly Castle welcomes visitors to their Victorian Christmas, with stalls and entertainment including captivating ghost tales and traditional fairground rides. Entry to the castle will be £5.50 or £4.10 for concessions.
• There are a number of chances to take part in the annual Caerphilly River of Light Lantern Parade on December 18 at 6.30pm.
Free workshops take place on December 13 and 14 at Caerphilly Leisure Centre between 10am and 5pm.
The annual River of Light Lantern Parade sees hundreds of lanterns light up the streets, accompanied by carnival samba drumming, dancing, costumed performers and much more.
This year’s theme is Frozen and climaxes with a fireworks display against the backdrop of the magnificent Caerphilly Castle.
I wonder are Caerphilly Council giving free parking in all it’s car parks during the festive season in a boost to incourage more Christmas shoppers.