Father Christmas is starting his journey early this year and will be making a flying visit to Barking in a couple of weeks.

The council supported by our sponsors Countryside and PartyBox are planning another fun filled, festive day in Barking Town Square on Saturday 1 December.

Not only will children be able to meet Santa in his free grotto but his real reindeer will be outside keeping a close eye. Pre-book the grotto between 11am and 3pm via Eventbrite or there drop in and queue up 3pm to 5pm. 

The event will also feature the annual Christmas tree lights switch on by Paw Patrol which will include a 30ft tree outside Barking Town Hall, live festive entertainment hosted by the Elfies on the Shelfie, Christmas workshops, face painting and junior funfair rides. 

Don’t forget your Christmas lists as this is perfect time to pick up handmade Christmas gifts at the Arts, Crafts and Vintage Fair on the day hosted by Studio 3 Arts. 

“Christmas is a time of year where friends, family and the whole community can come together and celebrate the festive cheer.”

Mr Incredible, Baby Jack Jack, Bing Bunny, Sofia the Unicorn and Bill Ding from Countryside will also be present for meet and greets along with Paw Patrol.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement said: “Christmas is a time of year where friends, family and the whole community can come together and celebrate the festive cheer.” 

“I am looking forward to coming down and joining the fun as it promises to be another exciting day for all of the family to enjoy.”

The festivities will start at 11am with Paw Patrol switching on the Christmas tree lights at approximately 4.30pm.

There will also be a 30ft tree outside the Civic Centre, street lighting displays at Dagenham Heathway, High Road in Chadwell Heath, Barking Station and East Street.

As well as these borough lead displays one of our development partners Barking Riverside Ltd will be putting out 18ft tree displays outside the Rivergate Centre.