Bedford will be 'switched-on' to Christmas on November 26th - thanks to town centre businesses and the BedfordBID.

The business organisation is sponsoring the annual riverside fireworks display on that night, and at the same time the town centre Christmas  lights will go on.

Late Night Christmas Shopping begins on the same day and there will be an appearance by Father Christmas and his reindeer outside the Harpur Centre. 

Parking will be FREE from 5.30 pm onwards at Lurke Street and Allhallows multi storey car parks for late night shopping on  Nov 26th, Dec 3rd, 10th and 17th.

BedfordBID Director Christina Rowe said: "Business are working with Bedford Borough Council to pull out all the stops to make this the best Christmas ever in town."

Full details updated on www.lovebedford.co.uk

*The "ice-rink"  on the Christmas cake will be the skating zone at the Bedford Swan Hotel which opens on November 21st . Bookings are being taken now for those who want to enjoy a "Bedford on ice"  experience.

Bedford Swan Hotel Sales and Marketing Manager Natasha Trudgill said: "Our ice-rink is going to be a huge crowd-puller for the town for the whole winter season. Those 1,000s who gather on the riverside to see the fireworks on November 26th  will be able to get a great view of our winter wonderland."