Many towns and districts have had to cancel their Christmas events this year, but fear not, some special Christmas festivities are already being planned for Basingstoke, albeit this year they will look a little different.

With the changing nature of the world, festive events in Basingstoke have had to make a few changes but there is no intention of Christmas being cancelled.

Visitors to Festival Place being assured they will be treated to festive fun this Christmas despite the challenges of 2020.

The Basingstoke retail and leisure destination is putting together the finishing touches to its plans to spread a little seasonal sparkle to shoppers.

Although there won’t be a launch event or lights switch on, the centre has worked hard to bring the magical atmosphere that visitors have enjoyed over the past few years.

All activities will be carefully arranged to adhere to the current Covid restrictions, and will include the Christmas grotto, the weird and wonderful roaming acts and some new awe-inspiring decorations.

FP Director Neil Churchill said: “Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year and we are doing everything in our power to make it just as special for our fabulous and loyal customers this year.

“There is still so much unknown about how the next few months will pan out and it is a shame that we can’t stage a big launch event, but we must keep to the guidelines, look after each other and stay safe.

“So, there will have to be a few changes, but rest assured we have no intention of cancelling Christmas at Festival Place! Watch this space.”

The Basingstoke Together BID will also carry on their Christmas events with the third year popular Snow Windows.

Basingstoke together have increased the number of windows by another 12 designs and will be providing additional Christmas lights in Market Square.

Their plans have not changed since January.

Unfortunately the pantomime performance of Beauty and the Beast, starring Chris Pizzey has been forced to postpone the performance because of the impact of Covid-19.

A range of other Christmas events across the country are being cancelled including Hyde Park’s winter wonderland.

They said:  “In light of ongoing health concerns and uncertainty surrounding COVID-19, and considering the size and scale of this event, we just couldn’t find a way to do that without compromising the magical attractions, shows, rides, bars and experience that makes Hyde Park Winter Wonderland so special.