Colchester: Town gears up for festive bonanza

10:00pm Thursday 20th November 2008

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A Dickensnian market and traditional fair will bring the spirit of Christmas to a fun day being held in Colchester.

Chocolate tasting, mulled wine and free entry to Colchester Castle will also be features of the special event.

The festivities on December 10 will start at 10am at the Visit Colchester Information Centre, in High Street, where staff will be dressed in Dickensian costume.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a mince pie, Christmas pudding and mulled wine tasting, and there will be chocolate tasting with the Chocolate Chef, a prize draw, lucky dip and live music.

There will also be a traditional market stall with festive treats and an activity trail between the centre and Colchester Castle.

From 4pm, the doors of Colchester Castle will be open free of charge for an evening of Christmas magic.

wonderland Visitors can enjoy traditional Christmas carols and a Christmas quiz, and there will be free mulled wine and mince pies.

Children will get a chance to visit Father Christmas in his bigger and better winter wonderland grotto, and receive a gift for £1.

A new snow machine will make sure of a white Christmas – at least on the night.

A Dickensian-themed market will be set up in Castle Park, with festive stalls featuring hot chestnuts, crafts, wreaths, Christmas cards and other festive treats.

Visitors can get their Christmas pudding, order their turkeys or taste some delicious sausages.

The festive event is being run in collaboration with Colchester Castle Park Rangers, the Visit Colchester Information Centre and Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service.

The information centre will be open from 10am to 8pm with free entry to the castle between 4pm and 8.30pm. The Dickensian market will run from 4pm to 8.30pm.