Christmas comes to Richmond this Friday, with the return of their famous, festive Victorian Evening.
Victorian-themed family activities and entertainment will take place in and around the centre of Richmond from 5pm onwards. And by Victorian they mean stilt walkers, Punch and Judy shows, carols and music from a brass quintet. (Rather than child labour and opium eating.) You can also head to the Orleans House Gallery in the Old Town Hall to make Victorian-inspired lanterns and headwear ready for the later festivities.
If you’re already in Victorian dress – look out for the prizes for the best costumes – head to the ATS Euromaster for 6.45pm to take part in Queen Victoria's Carriage Procession…
Starting from Kings Road at 7pm, with the bells from St Mary Magdalene Church ringing them on their way, the Queen Victoria Carriage Procession will feature local resident Vicky Peirson as Queenie herself, plus the Mayor of Richmond, Richmond panto stars Gary Wilmot and Jenny Éclair, as well as the Pride of Murray Pipe Band, and the Royal Military School of Music.
There’ll also be mulled wine and mince pies, charity stalls, and various prizes to be won. Many of the shops and restaurants are offering special offers on the night (save 20% in Brissi on Hill Street, and Hobbs on George Street), and you can buy one get one free at the Odeon cinema. You can even visit Father Christmas on Hill Rise.
All proceeds from the evening go towards the Victoria Foundation Special Wheels Appeal, funding an accessible minibus for the local residents.
The Victorian Evening takes place on Friday 2 December in Richmond-Upon-Thames, between 5 and 9pm. The carriage procession is at 7pm. Entrance is free. Visit www.thevictoriafoundation.org.uk to find out more. Save 10% if you hire your costume through www.victoriancostume.co.uk
