People across the borough have seized the opportunity to be part of the inaugural Christmas Tree Festival at the former Cotton Exchange on King William Street in Blackburn. For those who haven’t yet registered, there’s still a chance to join this unique celebration of community spirit.
A limited number of slots are being offered to volunteers interested in designing, decorating, and showcasing their own Christmas trees at this extraordinary event. What’s more, funding is available to support these creative tree designs!
Director of Operations, Caer Butler, explains, “The Christmas Tree Festival is generously funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and serves as a heartwarming celebration of our diverse communities. The festival welcomes personalized trees representing local charities, schools, and businesses, but it also invites displays that pay tribute to specific eras in our history, reaching back to the grand opening of The Exchange in 1865.”
From Victorian nutcrackers to 1980s Rubik’s Cubes and handcrafted austerity ornaments from the 1930s, the festival offers a delightful journey through time. Organizers are also seeking talented groups of carol singers to contribute to this special event!
Businesses, community groups, individual artists, or schools interested in creating a historically inspired tree can receive financial support of up to £100. This funding will help bring their tree designs, decorations, and craft materials to life. The captivating forest of trees will be assembled during the week starting on November 20th, and the public is invited to admire the trees on Saturday, November 25th (4 pm – 9 pm) and Sunday, November 26th (12 noon – 4 pm). The festive celebrations continue on Saturday, December 2nd, and Sunday, December 3rd, when The Exchange will once again open its doors from 12 noon to 4 pm. Importantly, there is no admission fee!
For those eager to be part of this heartwarming Christmas Tree Festival at The Exchange, please contact Caer Butler via email at info@exchangeblackburn.org.uk.
