A magical projection will bring light, colour and story-telling to Cheltenham this Christmas. The immersive film projection will transform the Municipal Offices and celebrate the town’s identity, heritage and character.

From 3 to 16 December, as darkness falls each evening, the specially commissioned festive film projection will be displayed across the façade of the council’s iconic building.

The projection forms part of a wider programme of festive activities taking place across Cheltenham this Christmas.

The town’s celebrations will begin from 21 November, when the Christmas lights are switched on. Delivered by Cheltenham BID (Business Improvement District), and part-funded by the council, the lights will bring sparkle and seasonal cheer throughout the season.

Also in partnership with the BID, and Visit Cheltenham, the council is encouraging local shops to sign up for late night shopping on the first two Thursdays of December. John Lewis and Marks & Spencer are some of the first to come on board.  What’s more, on the same two evenings, a ‘free from 3pm’ offer in all town centre council car parks* – funded by the BID – will mean that visitors do not need to pay for parking whilst they soak up the festive atmosphere. The free from 3pm offer does not extend to Regent Arcade carpark.

The Cheltenham Christmas Market<https://www.visitcheltenham.com/event/cheltenham-christmas-market/16072301/> returns to The Promenade, for an extended period of time, 10 – 23 December, featuring 40 wooden market stalls.

Councillor Izaac Tailford, cabinet member for economic development, culture, wellbeing and public realm said: “I am so excited for Christmas in Cheltenham. We have so much planned this year – including the immersive film projection lighting up the town.

“We have also listened directly to residents and visitors, providing free parking from 3pm across most of our town centre car parks on 3 and 10 December, so that everyone can enjoy late night shopping, the projection and everything else on offer, without having to the watch the time.”

This year, the ice rink will not return to Cheltenham. The council has reached the end of a successful 3-year contract and this presented an opportunity to consider other activities and events that residents and visitors may like to enjoy in the run up to Christmas.

Cllr Tailford continued: “Rather than committing to another long-term contract, especially with significant rises in costs and the changing shape of local government, we were keen to offer a unique festive countdown this year, full of new experiences to really set Cheltenham apart and let it sparkle. See you there!”

Pop over to Visit Cheltenham<https://www.visitcheltenham.com/whats-on/annual/christmas/> for a packed programme of festive events and seasonal celebrations happening across the town and county.