Christmas arrives at Poole High Street

Head to Falkland Square on Thursday, 29 November, for a day of free and festive entertainment from 11am until 7.30pm. The Worshipful Mayor of Poole, councillor Sean Gabriel, will switch on the lights alongside Dick Whittington pantomime stars and special guests at 5.45pm.

Friday, 30 November, is a day of live entertainment and Christmas classics outside the Dolphin Shopping Centre from 11am until 7pm.

Following that, a day of children’s entertainment, face painting, games, activities and magic shows will take place on Saturday, 1 December. Professor Bubblewubble will also be performing his live show.

The weekend’s festivities culminate with the annual Santa Parade on Sunday, 2 December. Santa will arrive at 11am on Poole Quay, transported by City Cruises, after which the procession will lead through the town to Falkland Square. Santa will be joined on his sleigh by The Worshipful Mayor of Poole, councillor Sean Gabriel, and Dick Whittington pantomime stars.

Also starring in the parade is The Dolphin Marching Band, Shining Bright Like A Star, and children from the Old Town Infant School and Nursery. Everyone is encouraged to come down in fancy dress and join the parade.

After the parade, Step Back in Time at Scaplen’s Court, from 12pm until 3pm, and soak up the festive atmosphere of Christmas past, with historical crafts for all ages.

Justin Hundley-Appleton, Poole BID manager, commented, “This Christmas we’ve got a whole host of different activities and free entertainment lined up for the whole family to enjoy. We want to make sure that everyone is supporting their local high street this festive season, there’s so much on offer and something for everyone.

“We’ve also got a giant Christmas snow globe for the perfect Christmas selfie, and a cosy outdoor seating area where everyone can enjoy hot drinks and a bite to eat.”

As well as the opening weekend, Poole BID will be hosting a series of Christmas movie nights on Thursdays throughout December with family favourites such as The Muppet Christmas Carol, Santa Clause the Movie and Happy Feet. Showings take place outside Sainsbury’s at 5.30pm and 7.30pm.

Parking for late night shopping will be free in all Borough of Poole car parks in the town centre on Thursdays from 29 November, 6pm until 9pm, and on Sundays from Sunday, 2 December, 10am until 6pm. In addition, morebus will run a free park and ride service between Creekmoor Park and Ride site and Dolphin Shopping Centre every 15 minutes from 8am until 6pm.