A selection box of free entertainment will see a different act performing in the city centre every Sunday, offering shoppers and diners a range of festive fun in the lead up to Christmas.

From a Mariachi band to a Disco Shed, the Countdown to Christmas will invite residents of all ages to step into the festive spirit this year.

The first of this series of merry pop-up events gets underway this Sunday 21 November, and will see UK Gospel Choir performing to city shoppers around Hay Hill.

As well as one of the most talented and professional choirs in Europe, shoppers may also catch a glimpse of some cheeky elves and other jolly characters as they wander through the city.

The Yuletide scene is already set after the city’s Christmas lights, including Norwich BID’s Tunnel of Light, were switched on last night.

Alan Waters, leader of Norwich City Council, said: “This charming line up promises to add some extra sparkle to the atmosphere in the city this Christmas.

“Spreading these free, family events across five weeks gives residents more opportunities to soak up the festivities and should be a timely boost for local businesses.”

To view the full schedule and details of the acts taking part in the Countdown to Christmas, visit www.norwich.gov.uk/christmas

#CountdownToChristmas

Schedule

 

Sunday 21 November
UK Gospel Choir
12:40pm and 2:20pm
Hay Hill
Two 40 minute sets of Christmas hymns, carols and contemporary classics.
The UK Gospel Choir are one of the most talented and professional choirs in the European Gospel scene.

Midday to 4pm, London Street and surrounding area:

National Elf Service
This pair of cheeky elves are here to cheer, with a walkabout bursting with music, magic and merriment.

Elves and the Goodometer
Two elves and their ‘Goodometer’ are checking to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice over the past year.

Variety Spectacular
A seasonal, theatrically comic, dynamic, variety show featuring spinning Christmas puddings, a festive soundtrack and the usual amazing variety stunts.

Sunday 28 November
Mariachi Christmas Band
12:30pm, 1:30pm and 3pm
Hay Hill
Love Christmas? Love Mariachi music? Well then you are going to love this festive band of Mexican roving musicians! Inspired by the sounds of Central America, authentic Mexican performers create a vibrant interactive atmosphere wherever they roam.

Midday to 4pm, London Street and surrounding area:

Musical Ruth

Deck the shopping centres with boughs of holly and let’s have a ding dong merrily on high. Here comes Musical Ruth and the amazing, magical, mobile piano!

Christmas Waiters

Imagine your very own Morecambe and Wise Christmas show, live and direct. Our seasonally spirited waiters are feeling festive and come prepared with giant Christmas puddings, magic floating glasses, yuletide napkin origami…and that’s just for starters.

Sunday 5 December
Disco Shed
Hay Hill
12:30 to 3:30pm

Join Disco Shed’s anarchic but family-friendly Christmas party. The Disco Shed takes the best elements of modern clubbing but disguises it amongst all the stuff you‘d find in your Dad’s old shed, to make a truly unique entertainment space and novel curiosity.

There will also be an opportunity to take part in a ‘Santa flash-mob’ – Santa suits provided!

Midday to 4pm, London Street and surrounding area:

Kitsch Christmas
Pam and Johnny bring you festive family fun, celebrating the finest Christmas entertainment from the 1960’s.

Valentinos Street Band
The Valentino’s Street Band performs Jazz, Funk, Calypso, New Orleans, Latin and Cumbia.

Elves and the Goodometer
Two elves and their ‘Goodometer’ are checking to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice over the past year.

Sunday 12 December
Disco Shed
Hay Hill
12:30 to 3:30pm
Join Disco Shed’s anarchic but family-friendly Christmas party. The Disco Shed takes the best elements of modern clubbing but disguises it amongst all the stuff you‘d find in your Dad’s old shed, to make a truly unique entertainment space and novel curiosity.

Midday to 4pm, London Street and surrounding area:

Elves and the Goodometer
Two elves and their ‘Goodometer’ are checking to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice over the past year.

Variety Spectacular
The Valentino’s Street Band performs Jazz, Funk, Calypso, New Orleans, Latin and Cumbia.

National Elf Service
This pair of cheeky elves are here to cheer, with a walkabout bursting with music, magic and merriment.

Sunday 19 December
‘The Time Machine Disco’ (Glass House)
Midday onwards
London Street
“Come prancers, come dancers…!” Grab your glad rags and join this century-hoppin’ dance extravaganza for the street.

Midday to 4pm, London Street and surrounding area:

Elves and the Goodometer
Two elves and their ‘Goodometer’ are checking to find out who’s been naughty and who’s been nice over the past year.

Variety Spectacular
A seasonal, theatrically comic, dynamic, variety show featuring spinning Christmas puddings, a festive soundtrack and the usual amazing variety stunts.

National Elf Service
This pair of cheeky elves are here to cheer, with a walkabout bursting with music, magic and merriment.