The full programme for Braemar’s Festival de Noël has been unveiled today, with 30 events for all the family running between December 9-11.

The Deeside village will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a Santa train, horse and carriage rides, cookie decoration, wreath making, Christmas letter writing and Disney Frozen singalong among the great activities for kids.

A family-friendly Celebration of Christmas Concert takes place on Sunday evening at St Margaret’s Braemar, with tickets starting from £5, featuring performances from the University of Aberdeen Chamber Choir and Albyn School Ensemble, jazz duo Rachel Lightbody and Tom Gibbs, presented by singer Fiona Kennedy.

For the grown-ups, there are a host of workshops, including weaving, photography and chocolate and beer tasting with local producers.

Mar Lodge opens its grounds and iconic Stag Ballroom for tours, while a number of local charity fundraising efforts will also take place over the weekend, including a ‘Jingle Bell Jaunt’.

Sunday is market day, with over 40 food, drink and craft stalls spread over three venues — with free carriage rides to take shoppers from A to B as they are serenaded by carol singers, pipers piping and a brass band.

As the sun sets on an action packed weekend, why not grab a mug of mulled wine and a mince pie before enjoying a spectacular festive fireworks display (set to live music) launched from the tower of St Margaret’s — taking place at 4.30pm on Sunday 11th December.

Tickets are on sale now for Braemar’s Festival de Noël at stmargaretsbraemar.org.uk

Commenting, festival organiser Lyndsey Boden said:

“Next weekend Braemar will be transformed into Scotland’s Christmas Village — with an absolutely brilliant line-up of activities, craft workshops, music and fun over a packed three days.

“For kids and families, there’s wreath making, the chance to write those letters to Santa, storytelling and even a chance to take a train ride to the North Pole!

“There’s no Christmas shopping experience quite like Braemar’s Festival de Noël — stress-free, hand-picked stallholders, top quality food, drink and crafts spread across three wonderful venues.

“From early morning wreath-making, to a late-night jazz cafe, concert and folk music in the pub there will always be something going on, music in the air and plenty of Christmas cheer. And so many of the activities are free to enjoy!

“We’ll round up the weekend with a bang with an epic fireworks display from the tower of St Margaret’s on Sunday 11th December of a live brass ensemble.

“After three days of Braemar’s Festival de Noël you’re guaranteed to be in the mood for Christmas!”

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