Cathedral Square is going to look more festive than ever this year with its annual lights switch-on kicking off the many Christmas attractions planned for November and December.
For the first time Cathedral Square will host its own wondrous Santa’s grotto and elf workshop in a ticketed area near Cathedral Arch, as part of the 'Once Upon a Christmas Wish' immersive event.
On the Square there will be Christmas huts selling Festive food and gifts, exciting children’s rides, and a photo chance with the Gingerbread family nestled near the Guildhall.
Little ones can join Mrs Claus and her cheeky elf in the magical classroom, while there is also live Festive entertainment every Saturday and Sunday.
The Once Upon a Christmas attractions will open from 28 November on Thursdays to Sundays, and every day on Christmas week.
The Cathedral Square Christmas tree arrives in the week of 17 November, and the spectacular official lights switch-on will take place on the evening of 21 November.
As is tradition this popular event will feature live music and renditions from local performers on the big stage.
Nearby there will be a display of Christmas attractions on Cathedral Green, with a spectacular light trail extending up to and beyond the Cathedral, including areas near the Norman Arch and other city centre locations.
A snow machine will blanket the cathedral entrance and Norman Gate, with two nutcrackers standing outside the main doors.
The event runs from 19 November to 4 December in the evenings, with the free Christmas Trail open throughout December.
Finally, there will also be an artisan market on 6 December, on Bridge Street and Cathedral Square.
Cabinet member for Communities, Poverty and Public Health Cllr Zameer Ali helped select the 42ft tree for the city centre, from a farm in Rowington.
He said: “I was proud to select the tree for our city centre, which everyone will see on 21 November in its full glory.
“These events are something new and exciting for the city centre for 2025 and will really showcase the spirit of Christmas in a fun, family-friendly environment.”
Paul Stainton, Head of Marketing and Communications for Peterborough Cathedral, said: "Our collaborations with Peterborough City Council and Peterborough Positive will allow us to bring the city together at Christmas in a really meaningful way.
"Linking the celebrations between the Square and the Cathedral encourages visitors to seamlessly experience both, creating a stronger sense of connection at the heart of Peterborough, while also reclaiming Cathedral Square for the community."
For more information keep an eye on the Peterborough City Council social media in the coming weeks.