Step into Christmas at Weston Favell Shopping Centre as it announces new dates for festive activities

Christmas activities at Weston Favell Shopping Centre in Northampton had to be delayed due to lockdown restrictions, however, the shopping centre has just announced new dates with December only around the corner.

Shoppers may recognise some continuities from last year such as the giant festive baubles hanging from the ceiling and the centre’s Giving Tree. However, one difference is the absence of the shopping centre’s annual parade and Santa’s Grotto, which - unfortunately - had to be cancelled due to COVID restrictions.

There are still a variety of festive activities planned for those able to access the centre throughout December.

Weston Favell’s Centre Manager, Kevin Legg, said: “We hope you are keeping safe and well this Christmas and enjoy our efforts, with our latest seasonal displays, to bring a bit of joy to what’s been a difficult year for all.

“We have taken steps to ensure everyone remains safe whilst taking part in each activity, so kindly ask you to use the hand sanitiser provided and keep a safe distance where you can.”

There will be photo opportunities where shoppers can take selfies during the week then, each Saturday from December 5, shoppers can have professional pictures taken against a festive backdrop that can be transformed into keyrings, baubles, snow globes, magnets and photo mounts.

Shoppers can also leave wholesome messages on the Christmas star located on the lower mall from December 3. Tags and pens will be provided to write messages and tie them to the fencing.

There will also be an opportunity to win prizes by scanning the QR code on the giant present outside Tesco to enter their festive giveaway on Facebook. Prizes include a hamper to the value of £250, a shopping spree in January worth up to £500, free Costa Coffee, Greggs lunch, H. Samuel vouchers and more.

Gift donations will be accepted at the Giving Tree from December 3 to Christmas Eve, which will go towards Home-Start Northampton. This is a charity that offers support to struggling families under stress in their own homes.

Furthermore, a magical talking post-box has arrived at the centre ready for children to post their letters to Santa. The big jolly man himself will be popping in every Sunday between 11am to 2.30pm to take the letters back to the North Pole and reveal one lucky winner each week to receive an early present from their list.

Shoppers can claim a free chocolate coin from Wendy’s Sweet Shop if they manage to find the elf hiding in the shopping centre and take a s-elf-ie. The elf will move each week to a new secret hiding spot.

Customers can expect to see some mystery guests, who will be appearing on key dates leading up to Christmas so keep an eye out for some suspect looking shrubbery, naughty elves and some very ugly sisters to name just a few.

More information and full terms and conditions for each activity can be found on the Weston Favell Shopping Centre website.