FROME will soon be feeling festive as Christmas celebrations are set to begin next weekend with the annual Extravaganza in the Market Place.
The Christmas Extravaganza, on Friday 27th November, will see festive entertainment throughout the evening before the town’s Christmas lights are turned on to begin the ‘Snow Ball’ – a free outdoor masquerade ball and the biggest participatory dance event to ever hit Frome.
The Mayor of Frome, cllr Kate Bielby said, “With music from the Frome Symphony Orchestra, local bands and choirs to accompany the illuminations, as well as plenty of festive food and drink, the Snow Ball promises to be the perfect start to the Christmas celebrations.”
The whole town is being encouraged to dress to impress for the Snow Ball, which will last for an hour after the lights are switched on, accompanied by music from Frome Symphony Orchestra.
Ball organiser Tasmin Head said, “We would love it if everyone who is attending would make a special effort to dress up for the night, in ball gowns, suits, princess dresses or flamboyant evening wear, whatever you love to dance in. And don’t forget to wear a mask!”
A local dance instructor will be on hand to organise easy routine to go alongside popular waltzes.
Creative director of the Extravaganza, Anthony Head said, “The Snow Ball is about active engagement and participation for people of all ages, to ensure that everybody enjoys the night. If you join in, you’ll get the most out of it. So don’t be shy!”
The main event kicks off in the Market Place at 7pm, but from 5pm there will be free children’s activities at Frome Library until 7pm and the chance to meet Santa at the PAC Christmas Grotto in the Westway until 9pm.
There will also be a craft and gift market, live music, hot food, a bar, and artistic light projections in the town centre.
For more details about the Extravaganza contact organiser Tasmin Head on tasmin@anthonyhead.co.uk
Upcoming events
As well as the Extravaganza there are numerous activities going on around Frome as the festive season gets into full swing. Here are some of the upcoming events:
Christmas Charity Fair
The Cheese and Grain will host its Christmas Charity Fair on Saturday 21st November, 9.30am-3pm with a special visit from Father Christmas. It will also be hosting a ‘lip-smacking chocolate festival on Sunday 22nd November, 10am-4pm and a craft fair on Saturday 28th November. Frome Town Youth Band will also be appearing on Sunday 13th December.
Christmas at the Barn
There will be a two-day Christmas shopping event at the Tithe Barn in Mells, on Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November.
Father Christmas float
Father Christmas will be visiting children across Frome during December, with the help of Frome’s Lions and Rotary clubs. The visits will begin on Saturday 5th December and end on Wednesday 23rd December.
Handel’s Messiah
Oakfield Choir will present Handel’s Messiah on Saturday 5th December at 7.30pm at the Memorial Theatre.
‘Light up a Life’ service
Dorothy House Hospice Care will be holding a service to remember loved ones during the festive season. The 45-minute service will be at Rook Lane Chapel on Thursday 10th December from 6pm.
‘Christmas by Candlelight’ concert
Jackdaws music school will be holding its annual ‘Christmas by Candlelight’ concert at the Church of St Mary Magdalene at Great Elm on Friday 18th December.
Christmas Concert
Frome Youth Choir will present Christmas Carols on Saturday 19th December, 4pm at Christ Church, Frome.
Christmas Get Together
Frome’s Big Christmas Get Together is on Christmas Day at Frome Town Football Club, Badgers Hill. This is a FREE lunch and a good old-fashioned knees-up and anyone who would like company is invited to a full, traditional three-course Christmas lunch, complete with transport, gifts, company and entertainment. The event is funded by local donations and completely free for guests, but you must book to ensure your place. Guest forms are available from Frome Library or by phone/email from Emma: 07811 217096 or fromechristmas@gmail.com
FMTC Pantomime
Frome Musical Theatre Company presents Sleeping Beauty from Tuesday 29th December at the Memorial Theatre.
