As the festive spirit envelops Shepton Mallet, the town has a vibrant array of events planned. perfect for shaking off the Christmas dinner drowsiness and sliding into the New Year with style.

Kicking off the festive fun, the Art Bank Cafe transforms into a nostalgic haven on the 18th of December, from 6 PM to 11 PM. Dust off your dancing shoes for the 80s & 90s Party with DJ Matt Ettle, where the beats of yesteryears meet tapas.

As Christmas inches closer, the heartwarming carols will echo through All Saints Chapelry on the 22nd at 6 PM during the Downhead Christmas Carol Service. This is your chance to bask in the glow of candlelight and community spirit.

Not to be outdone, the Art Bank Cafe is back in action on the 23rd, from 7 PM to 11 PM, with Hip City promising a night where music and merriment collide.

Christmas Eve brings a unique twist at St James' Church from 9:30 AM to 10:15 AM with Café Church, offering a blend of spiritual reflection in a café-like atmosphere – coffee and contemplation in perfect harmony. And there's also a lot of traditional Christmas cheer at St Peter's and St Paul's.

Boxing Day, the 26th, from 2 PM to 6 PM, is your cue to relax at the Prestleigh Inn,, or almost any pub in the town, with a cosy nook and something mulled - perfect for post-Christmas unwind.

As December wanes, brace yourself for a chilling adventure with the LAST EVER Ghost Hunt at Shepton Mallet Prison on the 30th, from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM. It's a night of eerie exploration in a historic setting – not for the faint of heart!

And then, the grand finale - welcoming the New Year. Shepton Mallet offers a medley of celebrations:

• The Crossways, North Wootton, hosts the New Years Eve Gala Party starting at 6 PM.
• For a serene transition into 2023, the Choral Evensong at The Blessed Virgin Mary, Batcombe, at 6 PM, offers a moment of tranquillity.
• Roth Bar & Grill, Bruton, and At the Chapel, Bruton, open their doors for a night of festive cheer, starting from the evening of the 31st and stretching into the first light of 2023.

From retro beats to serene prayers, and from festive feasts to ghostly tales, Shepton Mallet's holiday line-up is like a box of assorted chocolates – there's something for every taste!

This newsletter and article are sponsored by the Bath and West Showground, who have already announced some of the events they're hosting in the early months of 2024.

Here's a snapshot of what to expect:

January kicks off with the much-loved Giant Flea Market on 21st January, offering a treasure trove of finds. Following closely is the Somerset Vintage & Classic Tractor Show from 27th-28th January, a must-visit for tractor enthusiasts.

The month wraps up with the Toy & Train Collectors Fair on 28th January, a haven for collectors and hobbyists.

February brings the Somerset Comic Con and Gaming Festival on 3rd February, a dream event for comic book and gaming fans.

The Pasta Making Experience with Pasta Laboratory on 4th February offers a delightful culinary adventure. Young Driver on 17th February is set to revolutionise road safety with driving lessons for 10-17 year olds.

The month concludes with the Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show from 24th-25th February, celebrating the history and beauty of classic motorcycles.

Have a wonderful Christmas!