Bedford is being unwrapped to allow Christmas shoppers fun ways to spend, spend, spend locally this season.

For the first time the popular BedfordBID Love Bedford Gift Vouchers can be purchased on-line via www.lovebedford.co.uk/vouchers  Family and friends can redeem them in a choice of 270 businesses which offer something for everyone from computer games to Afternoon Tea, fashions and jewellery or hair and beauty. 

“The gifts vouchers are an easy way to give someone something they really want - and you are supporting Bedford Town Centre businesses in the process,” said Christina Rowe, Director of the BedfordBID. The vouchers can also be bought at the VIP Visitor reception of the Bedford Swan Hotel and the Bedford Travel & Tourism Centre at the Bus Station. 

For those who like to shop in person then the season starts on November 24th with Santa and his reindeer at the Harpur Square from 2pm. They will be joined by costumed characters too.

On the same evening: Xtra Xmas lights will be switched on paid for by businesses via the Business Improvement District. These will be at St Cuthberts St and Harpur St North - adding to those switched on last year by the same team at Boots Corner, The Broadway, Mill St, Howard St and St Peter’s St. 

Said Christina: “These supplement the traditional High St lights paid for the by the council and those put up by the Harpur Centre and individual businesses. It is a considerable investment but it brightens up Bedford for Christmas.”

Stay in town for Late Night Shopping until 8pm which begins on Nov 24th.

Late night shopping Thursdays (until 8pm) continues on December 1st, 8th, and 15th and then every evening from Monday 19th - 23rd. On Xmas nights parking is free at the Harpur Centre underground car park from 5.30 pm onwards. For full details of free parking on other days see www.lovebedford.co.uk

Christmas Fireworks on The Embankment start from 7pm on Nov 24th paid for by Bedford Borough Council, with sponsorship by BedfordBID.