A range of family activities and festive entertainment are on offer in Kingston town centre this Christmas, organised by Kingston First, the town centre's Business Improvement District.

Kingstoon's Christmas Market is back 16 November. (Photo: supplied)

Key dates:

• Christmas in Kingston begins on 16 November (there will be no light switch on event)
• Gift stalls in the Christmas Market will be open 16 November to 2nd January
• Lights across the town centre will be on by late afternoon on 16 November
• The Christmas Market stage, bar and food stalls and Alpine Village curling will be open 16 November to 2nd January

Kirsten Henly, Chief Executive of Kingston First, said:

"We're delighted to present a one-of-a-kind festive experience in Kingston town centre this Christmas – in addition to our cherished Christmas market, over the weekends we're introducing a local maker's market and local breweries taking charge of the bar. Join us for live music, curling lanes, enchanting Christmas lighting, and captivating interactive installations spread across the town. Discover more on our website, www.kingstonuponthames.info which is full of ideas and inspiration to help people discover what's on this festive season." 

The Kingston Christmas Market is back this year, selling unique homemade gifts and a range of food, and a fully-stocked bar serving festive favourites such as mulled wine and hot chocolates. Alongside the Christmas market, each weekend will host a local Makers Market organised by Kingston's very own Not My Beautiful House, and guest takeovers from local breweries on the bar. The stage in the Ancient Market Place will be hosting live music from Tuesday to Sunday, with choirs, local musicians and an open mic night. 

All throughout the town, new bespoke Christmas lights will be twinkling along the streets, with light installations dotted around. Returning this year is the giant reindeer in the Market Place, the tree decorated with neon lights, and the giant Bauble in Memorial Gardens. There will also be a brand new interactive walk-through Christmas present installation. 

The ski-themed Alpine Village is also set to return, with four curling lanes perfect for competing with friends and family over a festive drink. Younger children will adore the train ride in Memorial Square and the vintage carousel – it's the ideal festive day out for the whole family. 

On top of all this, the outstanding retail and hospitality offer makes Kingston the perfect place to enjoy a magical experience this Christmas, with close to 300 shops and a fantastic selection of pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from, alongside entertainment venues such as two cinemas, a theatre and escape rooms.

More information, including links to book curling and festive events can be found on our website kingstonuponthames.info/christmas.