Photo: Liv2Dance Theatre Train by Matt Wilson
Storm Bert may have tried to rain on Ashford’s festive parade, but it couldn’t dampen the town’s Christmas cheer! The Carnival of the Baubles, though missing its parade, still managed to light up the town center like a thousand twinkling baubles.
Over 1,500 brave souls ventured into County Square, transforming it into a magical, lantern-lit wonderland. With the lights dimmed and the music pumping, it was like stepping into a festive fever dream. Local businesses, schools, and community groups outdid themselves with their creative lanterns, each one a masterpiece celebrating Ashford’s unique charm. From hearts of the community to a steam locomotive named “Stour Express,” there was something for everyone to admire.
And the fun didn’t stop there! Talented local performers, including the dazzling Lumina Dance, the energetic Liv 2 Dance, and the ever-entertaining Theatre Train, took to the stage, wowing the crowd with their festive flair. The Ashford Rotary Choir serenaded the audience with their melodious tunes, while JVyoU and Baby Fire Bird added their own unique spark to the festivities. Even the Ashford Cinema at Elwick Place got into the act, screening the timeless classic “Elf” to spread holiday cheer.
So, while Storm Bert may have tried to steal the show, Ashford proved that nothing can dampen the town’s festive spirit. The Carnival of the Baubles was a resounding success, a testament to the resilience and creativity of the community.
Cllr Heather Hayward, Portfolio Holder for Tourism and Culture at Ashford Borough Council, said:
“Ashford’s creative community have not only shown their artistic talents this weekend, but also their incredible resilience.
“I am immensely proud of the Made in Ashford team, Emergency Exit Arts and Ashford Borough Council colleagues who created the Bauble Illumination Station in such a short space of time following the cancellation of the parade due to Storm Bert.
“Their efforts were rewarded by our fantastic local community who braved the weather and came to support the event. The atmosphere around the town was electric. Christmas has begun!”
Elwick Place’s Christmas Light Switch On and unveiling of ELFwick Place has been rescheduled for this Friday 29 November so from 4pm, visitors can head to Elwick Place’s Piazza to see the unveiling of ELFwick Place. Festivities will feature a variety of Christmas crafts, food and drink from Matches Sports Bar and The Ashford Cinema, delicious treats, coffees and mulled wine from Caffeine and Fizz, fantastic performances by Theatre Train and Towers Performing Arts and guest appearances from the Ashford Theatre Society’s Jack and the Beanstalk panto cast!
For one day only, 29 November, Santa will be making a special visit to officially open the ELFwick Post Office – which will then be open on selected dates throughout December. Children can explore the magical post office while experiencing a meet-and-greet with Santa himself.
As part of the seasonal celebrations, families can collect a free ELFwick Elf Passport from Santa during the Christmas Light Switch On or at the ELFwick Post Office and The Ashford Cinema from 29 November. Collect a passport and take part in a variety of festive activities around Elwick Place this winter.
For those that couldn’t make it, the Bauble Illumination Station will also be open on Saturday 30 November and Saturday 7 December, 10am – 3pm, for you to see this year’s lanterns and take part in free festive craft activities with Made in Ashford. Those who helped create this year’s lanterns will also be able to collect theirs to take it home.
You can also do the Lantern Window Trail from Thursday 28 November until Friday 13 December, with some lanterns on show in businesses throughout Ashford Town Centre. More information is available on www.loveashford.com.
This year’s event was organised in partnership with Ashford Borough Council and Emergency Exit Arts with Made in Ashford and supported by a host of talented local artists.
A special thank you goes to our festival and events sponsors Bucksford Law, EKC Ashford College, Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce and You Fibre who helped raise the profile of this year’s event and took part in creating this year’s lanterns.
The organisers would love to hear your feedback, please visit www.loveashford.com to fill in the quick survey.