With the changing nature of the world, Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) has taken a fresh look at Christmas activities and developed a series of new community led projects to keep Christmas celebrations on track. A key part of the festive programme is The Christmas Tree Festival at the end of November.
Schools, businesses and community groups are invited to design and decorate one of 50 Christmas tree panels provided by TVBC; which will then be brought together in an outdoor exhibition in the green space between The Lights and Andover Leisure Centre. Local organisations who have already signed up include Croydex, Andover Church of England Primary School , John Hanson School, The Mark Way School and Lion Oak Court.
The trees will be lit in the evening and the experience will be enhanced with a soundscape of songs and poems from local choirs and school children, and the public will be encouraged to wander amongst the trees and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, said: “The Christmas Tree Festival is an exciting way in which schools, local groups and businesses can come together to create something seasonal and inclusive that will be shared by all. Residents and visitors to the town will then be able to view the Christmas Trees in a special exhibition on 29 November. It is a fun and alternative way to celebrate the start of Christmas in Andover.”
If you are a school, community group or local business who would be interested in taking part then please email: events@testvalley.gov.uk as soon possible to register your interest.
The Christmas Tree Festival is part of a wider programme of events scheduled for 28 and 29 November which will also include a Christmas Food and Gift Market and the Andover Window Wanderland walking trail.
These events are provided by Test Valley Borough Council in conjunction with Andover Vision. The Christmas Tree Festival soundscape is produced with the support of Andover Radio.
