Micha and Boris, two reindeer, delighted crowds in Buckingham during the Christmas Lights Switch On event, on Saturday 26th November. The reindeer, from Luxlyk Reindeer in nearby Northamptonshire, were extremely popular all night. Children visited to hear the reindeer handlers speak about how the reindeer were visiting for just the one night, alongside Santa, who waved from Buckingham Table’s Santa Van. While adults learned facts about the reindeer, their diet, and habits. Olaf also made a surprise appearance delighting fans young and old!
The event was opened by the Town Crier, Russell Cross, in one of his final duties before stepping down from the role in the new year. Early in the evening, the lights were turned on by the Mayor of Buckingham, Cllr. Margaret Gateley, and the winners of the Christmas Card contest, Harry Caswell and Daisy Beckett. A reflection of Christmas Lights was delivered by the Rev. Tim Edworthy, the Mayor’s Chaplain.
Under the lights and next to the wonderful Christmas tree, donated by Buckinghamshire Council, the main stage played host to festive music. Great Horwood Silver Band started the event with traditional Christmas Carols. Two choirs performed, George Grenville Academy School Choir who sang classic songs from Away in a Manger to the Calypso Carol beautifully, and the wonderful Buckingham Voices whose harmonies and impromptu singalong to We Wish You a Merry Christmas closed the night.
The festive shopping trail was also a real hit, if you didn’t get a chance to pick up a trail map, please visit the Old Gaol or the Discover Buckingham website, and visit the twelve participating shops to find the hidden gifts. One correct entry will be drawn to win a fantastic prize of £100 to spend in a local shop.
Stalls for the Christmas Market included Good Times Café, Kerrie’s Bakes, LW Creations and FROGGS.
Councillor Robin Stuchbury, chair of Town Centre & Events committee said “I’d like to thank all the organisations who took part in the Christmas Light Switch On and the Town Council staff who supported the event on the evening. The Buckingham Town Council Town Centre and Events committee agree and budget for this event annually. Without this commitment, such events couldn’t take place. My personal highlight was the visit of the two charming and friendly reindeer which seem to go down as planned, and extremely well with everyone in the community.”
