Ipswich to host town centre drive-through events to see Christmas lights
An initiative allowing motorists to drive through Ipswich town centre to enjoy its Christmas lights will return this year.
The scheme is usually aimed at Disabled Blue Badge Holders and was extended last year to include everyone for the first time in 27 years.
Due to its success Ipswich Borough Council has brought back the drive-throughs, which will be from Major's Corner, along Carr Street, Tavern Street and Westgate Street and finish at Museum Street.
They are from 6pm to 9pm on Sunday, November 21 for the general public; Sunday, November 28 for blue badge holders; Sunday, December 5 for the general public and Sunday, December 12 for blue badge holders.
Visitors will need to book a free ticket for a timed slot before they visit, with only one ticket needed per vehicle.
Tickets will be available to book via the Ipswich Theatres website from Monday, November 15.
Other Christmas events include a virtual light switch-on from home via the council’s social media feeds and late-night shopping entertainment on the Cornhill.
Fool's Paradise will be performing their quirky street characters -The Living Lampposts – on Thursday, November 18 and 25.
The characters will perform three sets during the evening at about 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm.
Light up drummers Spark! will also return this year on Thursday, December 16 and 23.
The drummers will perform three sets during the evening at about 5pm, 6.30pm and 8pm.
The modern Christmas tree on the Waterfront has been installed and the traditional Christmas tree for the Cornhill, provided by Ipswich Central, and the town centre lights will be installed over the next few weeks.
Cllr Sarah Barber, portfolio holder for the town centre, said: "When the town gets decked up in lights that’s when the Christmas spirit starts for me and I hope they, along with the two Christmas trees and exciting late-night shopping entertainment, bring some festive cheer to people in the run up to the holidays.
"We will be releasing a light switch-on video again this year, which will include a special message from the Mayor of Ipswich, Cllr Elizabeth Hughes, so do keep an eye on the Council’s social media feeds so you can celebrate from the comfort of your own home.
"The drive-through events promise to be a success again this year, especially with the extra two dates we have scheduled. I know how popular they were last year and I urge those wanting to attend to get in quick as tickets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
"On the night, please remember to stay in your car and keep moving to ensure that everyone gets a chance to see the Christmas lights."
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