The annual Dorchester Christmas Cracker, sponsored by Kingston Maurward College, took place on Thursday, December 6, to celebrate the festive season within the county town.
Festivities began with a carol service in St Peter’s Church at 5pm, followed by performances from the Rock Choir in Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Retailers also opened for late night shopping, a variety of food and gift stalls lined the streets and a festive craft fayre took place in the Corn Exchange.
The Lantern Parade left Brewery Square at 5.45pm, led by Town Crier Alistair Chisholm who guided the procession through South Street, ending at St Peter’s Church on High West Street. Families of all ages braved the weather to participate in the parade, proudly presenting their lanterns that had been made during workshops at Dorset County Museum.
Dorchester’s Christmas lights were switched on outside St. Peter’s Church at 6.30pm by everyone’s favourite cuddly bear from deepest, darkest Peru, courtesy of Julia’s House.
Charlotte Spracklen, centre manager at Brewery Square, commented: “We had such a wonderful evening hosting the beginning of the Lantern Parade for the Dorchester Christmas Cracker. There were some really creative lantern designs on display, and we would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry Christmas.”
Dr. Jon Murden, director at Dorset County Museum, added: “Being able to host the lantern crafting workshops was so much fun for all the family and a great chance to showcase our current touring museum at Brewery Square. We had over 75 children participate in the workshop and it was fabulous to see them all come to life lit up in the parade.”
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