Cheam marks the start of the holiday season on Friday 4 December. The annual Cheam Village Late Night Christmas Shopping event, run by Cheam Traders with the support of Sutton Council, starts at 5.30pm. The theme for this year is Star Wars – so expect to see light-sabers and Sith Lords alongside food, jewellery, and handicraft stalls as well as singers, street entertainers and even an appearance from Santa himself. Whitehall Museum will be open late allowing visitors to enjoy the building dressed for Christmas, and a special snowman trail is sure to delight the little ones. The festivities culminate at 6.20pm as the lights themselves are switched on. Last year’s event attracted nearly 4000 visitors so expect busy streets and bustling market stalls.

Saturday 5 December sees the festive fun move on to Carshalton Village where area charity EcoLocal will host the Frost Fair, starting at 1pm. All Saints Church bells will peal to get the event underway when attendees will be able to enjoy a varied range of tasty treats and a variety of craft stalls selling wonderful gift ideas such as glassware, pottery, woodcraft and much more.

Ruth Dombey, Leader of Sutton Council, said:

“There are lots of events taking place across our borough to mark the start of the holiday season. There’s sure to be something for everyone to enjoy this Christmas – we can’t wait to welcome you to one of our fantastic festive events.”