This year the Rye Christmas Festival will commence on Saturday 6th December. Father Christmas will arrive in a beautiful horse drawn carriage escorted by a brilliant procession of pipers, drummers, bands and performing artist’s, followed by a spectacular display of fireworks. Santa will then be in his Grotto at the Rye Museum, East Street, which will be free as well as face painting for children.
During December a host of other events are planned, including the world famous Glenn Miller Orchestra, Christmas Ghost Walk, Food and Craft Market, Open air Shakespeare and much more. There will be a number of church services taking place, including a beautiful pageant ‘The Glory of Christmas’ at St. Mary’s Church. Traditional carol singing takes place around town on Saturday 20th December.
FREE CAR PARKING
Rother District Council has very kindly granted free car parking at council car parks over the three weekends and Christmas Eve. The full colour brochure detailing diary of events, shopping directory and parking is now available.
Festival Co-ordinator Peter Cosstick states “Last year was brilliant with around 2000 people coming into the town and enjoying our opening event.
With fireworks bursting overhead and the Christmas Tree at The George and on many other premises twinkling with fairy lights the large crowd have got into the Christmas spirit and are smiling despite the fact that the rain is lashing down. This was the scene last year, lets hope there is better weather for this seasons ‘Magical Event’ on Saturday 6 December.
Santa Claus arrives in style, delivered in a white coach pulled by two handsome shire horses.
I have been overwhelmed by the support that businesses have shown, and would thank all our sponsors and those giving up their time to support the festival. Once again we are supporting Demelza House children’s charity and during last year’s festival we raised £2300 for this very worthwhile cause”.
If you would like any further information regarding the Festival please see the full festival colour brochure (available in most businesses in Rye), visit our websites or contact the Rye Heritage and Tourist Information Centre on 01797 226696.
Photographs by Richard Harris
“Rye’s Own” December 2008
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