Where to get the festive feeling in Walsall
Thousands of people are expected to descend on a series of Christmas events across Walsall over the coming weeks.
Last year, more than 5,000 went to Walsall, Aldridge, Bloxwich, Brownhills, Darlaston and Willenhall to enjoy the festivities and organisers behind this year's Christmas events are expecting that to increase as more activities are added to the programme.
The festive season officially kicks off with Aldridge and Bloxwich, with Santa making his first appearance in the borough on Saturday (29 November).
A free-to-use ice rink in Bloxwich Park is this year's main attraction for the Sparkle into a Bloxwich Christmas, but throughout the day there will be a Christmas trail, local choir performances, donkeys, rides and stalls.
Held on the same day will be the Aldridge Advent Adventure. The town will host a free ice rink and music on the main stage, as well as traditional children's rides, including a roundabout, and Christmas Stalls, a petting zoo and professional photo portraits.
Then the Wonderful Willenhall Christmas on December 6, held in Market Place and Stafford Street in the town, features singers and bands.
Darlaston's The Spirit of Christmas takes place a week later on December 13 in King Street. A range of free rides for children of all ages, a petting zoo and free face painting are among the attractions.
Brownhills is hosting its first Christmas Market on December 13 and 14, with traders selling crafts, jewellery, continental gifts and hot food.
Organisers for the event have modelled the trading event on the popular Walsall Night Market and up to 40 stalls will be erected in the town's Ravenscourt Precinct. Stalls will trade from 11am to 4pm on both days, with a Santa's Grotto and a free ice rink.
That weekend there will also be a synthetic skating rink in Gallery Square in Walsall town centre.
"Christmas is a great time of the year and once again we've lined up an outstanding programme of events and performers," said Councillor Mohammad Nazir, Walsall's regeneration chief.
"The line-up has something for people of all ages and will attract shoppers and visitors who want to take part in the fun.
"With so many great events happening throughout the holidays, we're sure they will leave you feeling wonderfully festive."
