People urged to enjoy festive fun in Staffordshire this Christmas
People looking for a magical Christmas are being reminded that Staffordshire is a top destination with something for everyone.
People can easily start to plan their trip by downloading Enjoy Staffordshire’s interactive #ChristmasInStaffs map.
At the Alton Towers Resort, families can enjoy an unforgettable Christmas break, where the Santa's Sleepovers include a chance to meet Santa, enjoy the Christmas panto, selected family rides, and admission to the waterpark.
Whilst at Drayton Manor Resort, it’s a Christmas Wonderland with Santa in his grotto and fun on the favourite family rides at Thomas Land. And Santa’s Winter Wonderland is back at the SnowDome, with plenty of real snow and real animals.
If it’s a more traditional Christmas that people are interested in, then there’s lots of pantomimes including The Three Musketeers at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle, Jack and the Beanstalk showing at both the Garrick Theatre, Lichfield and Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford, Dick Whittington at the Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent and Cinderella at The Prince of Wales Theatre, Cannock and Tamworth Assembly Rooms.
If it’s Christmas markets people are after, there’s the festive Castle Artisan Market in Newcastle, Weston Park’s Christmas Market and artisan markets at World of Wedgwood.
People can also bag a bargain at the Trentham Shopping Village or explore the amazing Trentham Gardens on the sparkling new Winter Light Trail.
If designer shopping is on people’s Christmas list, then McArthur Glen Designer Outlet at Cannock is the place to go.
Philip White, deputy leader at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Staffordshire has a brilliant tourism offering all year round but at Christmas the county really comes alive.
“We’re the UK’s best playground, with some of the country’s biggest theme parks, along with hundreds of smaller attractions and venues, all waiting to be explored. We have vibrant towns, great bars and restaurants, cozy country pubs, and fantastic shopping and places to stay.
“With a fabulous mix of indoor and outdoor festive attractions and events, there’s something for all the family and for all budgets. I’d definitely urge people to download the Christmas map with all the events and start exploring our amazing county.”
At the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas, illuminations will bring a kaleidoscope of colour, with a light trail that shows the memorials, gardens and woodland as never seen before. Lichfield Cathedral is also joining in the festivities with their own magnificent Christmas Light Show.
During a visit to Jingle Ville at Lower Drayton Farm near Stafford, visitors will be greeted by friendly and mischievous elves, ready to guide them through an experience filled with fun festivities and delightful surprises.
At Foxfield Railway, people can jump aboard the North Pole Express. The train is decorated to bring festive cheer and each child gets a gift from Santa, plus there’s plenty of entertainment along the way and Christmas treats to eat and enjoy.
