Christmas countdown sparks festive events

Primary 1 pupils from Nazareth House Primary School get behind the local Christmas Jumpers World Record bid.

The festive Walled City Market will return to Guildhall Square today (Friday), and will remain until Thursday, December 22.

Elfwood Forest will reopen at the Mayor’s Parlour in the Guildhall today from 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 8pm and tomorrow (Saturday) from 12- 5pm, admission free. Ellie the Elf will relate stories of Elfwood and get them to help her wake Santa.

Christmas Craft Making photo workshops will be held in the Tower Museum this morning from 10am to 11.30am (£2).

St Columb’s Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival meanwhile runs until Monday December 19 in aid of Foyle Hospice, Foyle Search and Rescue and St Columbs Cathedral.

The Mrs Claus Cosy Christmas Experience meanwhile will run daily from this Sunday to next Friday, and Santa’s wife will relate tales of living with him and the elves hourly at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm, with a traditional gift for each child, as well as hot chocolate and sweet delights (£2). Pre-booking via Guildhall reception is advisable to avoid disappointment (telephone bookings only 028 71 376510).

In Galliagh, the Rainbow Child and Family Centre at Bracken Park will host its Winter Wonderland, with a light show, snow tunnel, market stalls, gingerbread forest and storytelling from today through to Friday 23, weekdays 5.30pm-8pm and weekend 3-8pm. Cost £5 per child (includes Santa visit) £3.50 per adult, or family of five, £20.

The Big Christmas Jumpers World Record Attempt at Waterloo Place will take place this Sunday, December 18 at 1pm. Register via: www.childrenincrossfire.org/involved/events/christmas-jumpers/.

The free Mayor’s Christmas Choral Gathering meanwhile sets off from the Guildhall on Thursday (December 22) at 7pm with carols and Christmas songs at various stops across the city centre.