Lairg prepares to welcome Santa and his reindeer at Winterfest on Saturday

Lairg’s annual Winterfest 2022 takes place on Saturday, December 3.

Now in its sixth year – after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic – Winterfest is a wonderful family day out that is guaranteed get everyone into the Christmas spirit.

The day will kick off at 12pm with church bells ringing to open the festive parade – Santa Claus will be pulled in his sleigh by real reindeeer from Cairngorm Reindeer Centre along Main Street to the community centre, where activities are based.

Santa will then be in his grotto in the community to greet children from 12.30pm-4pm (£3 entry). Youngsters can also meet the reindeer at the back of the community centre throughout the afternoon.

Local traders and artisans will be selling their wares at a Christmas craft fair in the centre. There will also be a café selling refreshments and homebaking provided by Lairg Crofters Show.

Outdoors there will be a family funfair to keep the kids amused, and a hot food van.

Further children’s entertainment will be provided by Mousetail Puppets whose charming characters glow in the dark. Admission is free to the 2pm show at Lairg Primary School.

The Grand Raffle will be drawn at 4pm with the day event closing at 4.30pm.

Winterfest is organised by Lairg and District Community Initiatives (LDCI).

LDCI chairwoman Kaye Hurrion said: “We are delighed to be able to hold Winterfest this year after not being able to do so for the past two years.

“Winterfest has been made possible by the generosity of a number of local businesses who have either donated towards the event or have donated to our raffle which has some fantastic prizes.

“Winterfest is a really important event here in Lairg for our community and our surrounding neighbours, and without the support of businesses, we would really struggle to host the day.

“We’d also like to thank all the volunteers who help out, and we look forward to welcoming everyone on the day.”

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