Battle bedecked with the Christmas spirit

On clear nights in December the lights on the Abbey Gatehouse, the big tree on the Abbey Green and the bright, understated decorations across the High Street evoke and create the best of yuletide memories. Battle’s Christmas traditions are well-practised and well-loved.

One such tradition is the arrival of Santa Claus on the last Saturday of November.

This year his sleigh will make its way down the High Street on 30th November, pulled by the Langton Loons and accompanied by the Kingfisher Band, with the 1st and 2nd Battle Rainbows, the Battle Beavers and a variety of pantomime characters in attendance.

As always, Santa will meet children in his grotto in the Memorial Hall during the afternoon.

Outside on the Abbey Green there will be Shetland ponies, candy floss, photo opportunities beside Santa’s sleigh and carol singing by local soprano, Lucy Ashton.

At approximately 5pm, Santa Claus will come outside to greet the waiting crowd and begin the countdown to the moment when he switches on the Christmas lights and the town is illuminated and magical for another festive season.

Battle will be brimming over with Christmas spirit on its annual Gala Night on Thursday 12th December when, whatever the weather, the shops stay open until 9 pm, the traders are in fancy dress and visitors are welcomed with warmth and hospitality.

This year, as ever, there will be entertainment throughout the town.

The Battle and Langton School choir, the Battle Abbey School choir, the Hastings Melodians and Lucy Ashton & friends are scheduled to sing by the big Christmas tree on the Abbey Green and there will be music from the Salvation Army band, Local Vocals and the Battle Choral Society at other venues.

In addition, Kevin Frost’s Soundfactory Disco promises to add something special to the evening in Market Square.

A Wealden Crafts’ fair will take place in the Memorial Hall from 4 pm and the Museum of Local History in the grounds of the Almonry will be open and free.

There will also be events at St Mary’s Church and the Battle Baptist Church. Parking in the Battle Abbey car park will be free for the evening and the municipal car parks are free from 7 pm.

For shopping on the three Saturdays leading up to Christmas (Saturday 7th, 14th and 21st December) there is free parking in the Mount Street and Market Square car parks and the Battle Abbey car park.

For full details of Battle’s Christmas events, pick up a copy of the Chamber of Commerce leaflet which is widely available and includes a shop window competition that could win you a family meal for four at Simply Italian.

Battle loves Christmas and is delighted to welcome visitors to share its traditions.

Come along this year and make some new seasonal memories in a vibrant town that cherishes its past.