CHRISTMAS officially launched at intu Lakeside with a spectacular switch on event, firework display, and a surprise visit from a very special guest… Santa himself!
The magical event, which was attended by over 2,000 people, revealed a Christmas which is set to be bigger and better than ever before and launched the centre’s very own German Market on Christmas Street and an enchanting gingerbread grotto.
Spreading the Christmas cheer
The event began with a festive Hamleys toy parade marching around the centre. Hamley Bear and other characters rallied the centre’s youngest recruits who joined the procession, which ended at the outdoor stage. After marching to the stage, younger visitors enjoyed live entertainment in the form of CBeebies star, Mr Bloom, as well as live music and the chance to sing along to some Christmas favourites.
A surprise guest drops in as intu Lakeside lights up
As the crowd gathered outside, people gasped as they looked up to see Santa abseiling down the walls of the centre, much to the delight of children watching on!
The Christmas cheer spread quickly as intu Lakeside invited this year’s Local Hero, Tony Fisher, to the stage. Tony, who saved the lives of three people, had the honour of switching on the Christmas lights in addition to receiving a £250 gift card as a thank you for his selfless act.
Visitors to the centre also enjoyed a breath-taking firework display to start Christmas with a bang and launch intu Lakeside’s most magical Christmas ever.
So come and play this Christmas with intu Lakeside!
