THE countdown to Christmas is on and more festive treats are in store for visitors to Darlington.
Festive music continues into this weekend (19 December) with music and entertainment around the indoor and outdoor market. Thursday 17 December will see the Grand Final of the Cornmill Shopping Centre’s Sing to Win competition with £1,000 up for grabs. Search for Cornmill Shopping Centre on Facebook for details.
Penguins are set to pop into West Row in Darlington on the final Saturday before Christmas (19 December). Shoppers can take a peek at the penguin centred educational display and meet live penguins on from Penguin Encounter.
There’s still time to see Santa for free around the town in his special grottos at Queen Street and Cornmill Shopping Centre from 10am – 4pm on Saturdays and 11am – 3pm on Sundays.
Catch him in the Market Hall from 10am – 3pm every Saturday and receive a free gift – Invites are essential and will be handed out in around the town centre and Market Hall on the day.
Councillor Chris McEwan, Darlington Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Christmas has certainly come to town and I am delighted to see our retailers joining in with their festive decorations. With its quirky yards and host of independent and national shops, Darlington is a brilliant place to get something a bit different for someone special.”
Late night shoppers can take advantage of free parking after 3pm on Thursdays in council- run car parks. Parking in Darlington town centre is just 50p per hour in Archer Street, Chesnut Street, East Street car park (above Wilkinsons) and Garden Street car parks. In addition, car park users can pay for two hours or more in any council-run off street car park and get an extra hour for free. Visit www.darlington.gov.uk/parking. In the run-up to Christmas parking is free for entries after 3pm in the Cornmill Shopping Centre.
Travelling to Darlington town centre by bus is easy and convenient with the new Arriva Frequenta service. Visit: www.dothelocalmotion.co.uk.