This Christmas, Bedford Borough Council in partnership with Love Bedford have set up a festive Christmas Trail across Bedford Town Centre.
Starting on Friday, December 4, the Christmas Trail lets families explore the town centre to find the twelve Christmas characters that have been hidden in the windows of some of your favourite town centre businesses.
The trail, which runs until Thursday, December 24, is free to enter and although aimed at younger children, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
To help slow the spread of COVID-19, Bedford Borough Council has been looking at safe ways for residents to celebrate the festive season.
Alongside the Christmas Trail in the town centre, the Council, BedfordBID and the Harpur Centre will be holding several other Christmas events and competitions. This includes:
- A traditional decorated Christmas tree.
- A Christmas Card Competition display.
- The Made in Bedford Christmas Artisan Market, on Sunday, December 13.
- Christmas Light displays across Bedford Town Centre.
- Festive window displays.
- A virtual Santa’s Grotto.
Dave Hodgson, Mayor of Bedford Borough, said: “In order to help to slow the spread of COVID-19, we’ve thought a lot about how we can mark Christmas in a safe and responsible way this year.
“We’re excited to announce that a Christmas Trail will be bringing festive cheer to Bedford Town Centre this December.
“The trail is free to enter and residents can take part with their households to try and find the hidden Christmas characters around the town centre. While you’re enjoying the seasonal celebrations, you should continue to follow government guidance on slowing the spread of the virus and the “Hands, Face, Space” advice.”
Samantha Laycock, Chair of BedfordBID, said: “It’s fantastic to be able to announce all the exciting Christmas celebrations that we have planned for Bedford Town Centre. We’ve worked with lots of businesses to make the Christmas Trail a fun and safe experience for everyone who wants to take part.
“We really want to make this Christmas special for the people of Bedford Borough after such a challenging year.
“There will be exciting events and competitions taking place in the town centre this festive season, so if you’re looking for some Christmas fun, take part in one of our activities.”
If you would like to take part in the Christmas Trail, you can download a copy of the trail sheet by visiting
From Friday, December 4, a limited number of hard copies will also be available to collect from La Piazza on St. Paul’s Square.
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