Thousands of people enjoyed free festive entertainment at Swindon’s Town Gardens after a Christmas event attracted more than five thousand visitors.
Christmas in the Town Gardens was delivered by South Swindon Parish Council and took place across four afternoons on Friday 13 December, Saturday 14 December, Friday 20 December and Saturday 21 December.
The free family event transformed Town Gardens into a festive attraction with live entertainment, creative activities and seasonal installations.
Organisers said the event was designed to be accessible, with no tickets or entry fees required, allowing families and residents to drop in and enjoy the celebrations.
Local performers took to the bandstand throughout the weekends, showcasing a wide mix of music, dance and cultural performances from community groups across Swindon.
A range of food vendors were also present, offering international street food while visitors watched performances and explored the gardens.
Children’s activities ran throughout each afternoon, including craft sessions, face painting, glitter art and interactive workshops from visiting entertainers and arts organisations.
Several roaming performances and character appearances added to the atmosphere, with circus acts, storytelling and bubble displays proving popular with families.
One of the main attractions was a series of large interactive installations, alongside the Magical Lantern Forest created by Swindon Culture Collective.
Feedback from visitors praised the friendly atmosphere, quality of entertainment and the chance to enjoy a Christmas event without cost.
Cllr John Firmin, Vice-Chair of South Swindon Parish Council’s Leisure, Environment and Amenities Committee, said:
“We decided to try something different in the Town Gardens this Christmas and it was great to see all four days so well supported and enjoyed by lots of our residents. Thank you to the Parish Events Team and all our partners who made these experiences possible. The children’s activities were all very popular and the entertainment was a wonderful mix that everyone could enjoy.”
Organisers thanked performers, volunteers, partners and visitors for supporting the event and helping make it a success.
