There will be more than 50 craft, gift, and food and drink stalls at a Christmas market this year.

From 10am to 4pm Epping Town Council's Christmas market will be in the High Street on Saturday, December 3, with the aim of helping local businesses on the high street and marking the celebration of Christmas.

The Christmas lights will be up to add to the festive atmosphere, including the annual central 25ft Christmas tree on the piazza, which was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Epping.

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Epping town mayor Barabara Scruton will open the market followed by entertainment including choirs, singers, and musical theatre from 11am.

Reindeer will be in the market garden and the council has also promised an “elf on the shelf”.

The Town Mayor will then switch on the Christmas tree lights later in the event and present the Audrey Rose Cup award to the winner of a competition between local businesses to have the most festive shop front.

The Christmas market will take place alongside the St John’s Church Christmas Tree Festival which will run through the weekend – allowing anyone to enter a creatively decorated tree.

Epping Forest Guardian: The 2019 25ft Christmas tree in Epping town's piazzaThe 2019 25ft Christmas tree in Epping town's piazza (Image: UGC)

The church’s festival will be based around the theme of “we three kings” and promises “real show-stoppers and jaw droppers” for attendees.

There will also be a Santa’s grotto at Epping Fire Station between 10am and 4pm while Epping Library, in St Johns Road, will be providing Christmas crafts and storytelling sessions.

Epping Town Council has asked high Street businesses to support the event and join in the festive season by extending opening hours, giving out free samples, offering a present wrapping service, or giving promotional discounts on the day of the event.

Epping Primary School has allowed the council to use its private car park for traders at the event.

However, due to continuing development at the multi storey car park at Qualis Commercial’s Cottis Lane site, there will be very limited parking in the town and the council is asking visitors to leave their car at home.