On Thursday 16th November, Orpington had their Christmas Lights Turn on from 16:00 to 20:00.
The centre where the war memorial is was lit up extravagantly with a light up Christmas tree, which will stay lit until then end of Christmas. Attendance increased by a vast amount compared to last year, with family, friends and children at every visible corner.
The high street was pedestrianised for a fun packed evening to take part in the most wonderful fairground-like rides, with: Ferris-wheels, spinning cups, carousels and many more. Towards the NatWest bank there was a pen full of cute reindeers, letting little children feed them with hay.
The main stage had live entertainment from children singing in their choirs, spreading Christmas cheer. At the stage was also the countdown to fireworks at 19:00, filling the sky with blasts of colour.
Tastes of caramel hot chocolates, candy floss, warm hot donuts, roasted nuts were being made available to the hungry public, setting the warm snug feeling of winter ahead.
It was described as “A warm family friendly event,” by many and they will look forward for it next year! Maybe if you didn’t go this year, come down next time to get into the Christmas festive feeling!
By Vindhya Makkuni, Newstead Wood School
