A towering 55ft Christmas tree, thousands of twinkling lights and a unique festive scent trail will help kick off the festive season at Cotswolds Designer Outlet next month.
The shopping destination will officially launch its Christmas celebrations on Friday, November 13, when more than 2,000 metres of lights are switched on during a special evening event.
Among the attractions will be the new 12 Scents of Christmas Trail, inviting visitors to test their sense of smell by identifying festive fragrances hidden inside miniature Christmas houses throughout the outlet.
Shoppers will also be able to admire what organisers describe as one of the UK’s tallest real Christmas trees, standing at an impressive 55ft.
The festive programme will include a free Father Christmas experience running from November 13 to December 23, where children can step into a Christmas wonderland, meet Santa and his elves, and receive a special gift. Visitors will also have the option to donate to the outlet’s charity partner, the Gloucestershire Community Foundation, which supports charities and organisations across the county.
Other attractions include a giant snow globe, an illuminated sleigh for festive photographs, a Father Christmas post box and letter-writing station, live music, personalised Christmas stocking and present sack workshops, and a range of festive food and drink stalls.
Adrian Field, centre manager at Cotswolds Designer Outlet, said: “Christmas is such a special time and we’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing even more festive magic to Cotswolds Designer Outlet this year.
“From our show-stopping real Christmas tree that’s over 55ft, to the 12 Scents of Christmas Trail that will put everyone’s sense of smell to the test, there’s something to delight and make the visit memorable for guests of all ages.
“We can’t wait to welcome families to meet Father Christmas and make some wonderful festive memories together.
“We’re looking forward to kicking off the season in style on November 13 and creating a truly magical atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.”
The switch-on event begins at 5pm, marking the start of a festive season packed with family-friendly entertainment, shopping and Christmas-themed experiences.
