This will be the 18th year that the Festival has taken place in the centre of Bedford. It is now a firm favourite by many who see this as their start to Christmas to see our historic and beautiful St Paul’s Church lit by over 60 trees decorated by so many community groups, schools and firms. This year we are building on this tradition of community involvement by reflecting our diverse cultural identity in the 2018 theme…”Christmas Around the World”.
Plans are already being made for evening concerts, competitions and of course the booking of our very special choirs of all ages who sing throughout each day and add to the Christmas magical atmosphere.
A huge team of volunteers is always required to put on this Christmas Festival from helping to prepare the Church, manning the pay points, taking part or helping with the daily children’s and community concerts and not to forget the important sponsorship and decoration of trees. More information will be available in September but If you would like to help or want more information on how you can help please contact the Festival Chairman, Margaret Oakley on mboakley@hotmail.co.uk.
68 trees glittering with Christmas themes from around the world, decorated by local groups, charities, schools and businesses will fill St Paul's church in the first week of December. The 18th Christmas Tree Festival in aid of the Bedford Hospitals Charity and the church will this year reflect the rich diversity of Bedford's community. Throughout the festival, school and community choirs will sing, dance, ring handbells. Competitions both for children and amateur photographers are further enticements to attend this much loved festival.