TENBURY is set to buzz on Saturday with the day-long Mistletoe Festival and Santa Parade in the evening but this is just the start to a month of activities with the hope that despite tough times, people will open their wallets and purses in town shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants.

The message to locals and visitors is to get in the festive spirit as Christmas comes to Tenbury with its merry markets, Christmas-themed entertainment, and a Mistletoe Queen.

Tenbury is all set for a Christmas celebration full of joy and merriment, starting with its annual Mistletoe Festival on Saturday, December 3 from 10am to 6pm.

The popular Tenbury Wells Mistletoe Festival will include the traditional crowning of the Mistletoe Queen, stalls, music, a mistletoe ceremony, workshops and more.

It starts tomorrow evening with an event in the Pump Rooms.

As night falls on Saturday there will be the Santa Parade of children down Teme Street to St Mary’s Church.

On Thursday, December 8 Tenbury Christmas Markets take place from 1pm to 7pm, at Tesco Market Place and at the historic Round Market in Market Square at the end of Market Street.

Stallholders will be selling local artisan produce, arts, crafts, and Christmas gifts. Late-night shopping also takes place on Thursday, December 8 in the town.

For even more Christmas entertainment The Regal will be hosting Tenbury’s all-comedy pantomime Robin Hood, from December 14 to 31.

“We are really looking forward to the Christmas celebrations in Tenbury Wells, the market town is known as the UK’s Capital of English Mistletoe, and the festival is really popular with plenty of things to do for the whole family,” said Bridget Thomas, who represents Tenbury on Malvern Hills District Council.

Whilst Tenbury’s other Malvern Hills District councillor Lesley Bruton wants people to shop local.

“We would encourage visitors and residents to enjoy all the festive entertainment Tenbury has to offer, it is also a wonderful opportunity to shop locally for Christmas gifts,” she said.