Walsall families are in for a magical treat this festive season as Santa Claus is setting up his free grotto at the Saddlers Shopping Centre. The jolly visitor from the North Pole will be meeting children on Saturday, November 29, offering a wonderful opportunity for youngsters to share their Christmas wishes.
Festive Fun for All the Family
The special day begins with Santa's arrival at 11am, and he will be greeting families until 4pm. The best part? Visiting Santa is completely free, no booking is required, and every child who meets him will receive a little gift to take home. This initiative ensures the Christmas spirit is accessible to all.
Councillor Louise Harrison, the Mayor of Walsall, expressed her delight, stating: "It’s great to hear that Santa Claus is visiting us so early in the festive season – Walsall must be on the ‘nice list'. All families are invited come down and say hello."
More Chances to Meet Santa and Festive Activities
For those who cannot make the first date, there is no need to worry. Santa will be returning to the Saddlers Centre on two more Saturdays, December 6 and 13, again from 11am to 4pm.
Beyond the grotto, a Christmas letter writing station will be available at the centre daily from November 29 to December 21, between 9am and 5.30pm. Here, children can prepare and post their wish lists. In a wonderful extra surprise, elves will select four lucky children to have their entire wish list gifted to them in time for Christmas.
A Full Day of Christmas Celebrations in Walsall
The festive fun on November 29 extends far beyond the shopping centre. The day's celebrations begin with a Christmas Makers’ Market at The New Art Gallery Walsall from 11am to 3pm.
Simultaneously, the Walsall Leather Museum will host drop-in sessions where visitors can create their own leather Christmas decorations for just £1.50.
Later, a Walsall Festive Makers’ Market will run from 3pm to 8pm in the square at The Crossing at St Paul’s. An Illuminate light projection show will also take place there from 4.45pm to 5.30pm.
The grand finale of the day will see Married at First Sight UK bride Sacha Jones switch on the town's Christmas lights at 5.30pm at The Bridge by the Sister Dora statue, officially marking the start of the holiday season in Walsall.
