Ventnor is hosting a Christmas Community Day today, culminating in a lantern parade and carol singing in the park.

There are Christmas fayres being held at St Catherine’s and Ventnor Baptist Churches, and a Christmas market is taking place at Ventnor Winter Gardens from 10.30 am – raising funds for St Catherine’s School.

Free parking will be available at Ventnor Town Council car parks in Dudley Road, Market Street and Pound Lane.

Live music at Spring Hill Gardens will include pupils from St Francis Primary School and The Island Free School, The Ventnor Ukes, Ventnor Exchange Community Choir, Greg Barnes, Lucan and Bethan John.

Santa and his elves will be at the grotto in the High Street, next to The Kitchen at London House, between 12 noon and 4pm. 

The Better Days Cafe, next to Tesco, is hosting a fun day with lots of activities for children and an appearance by a special guest.

Ventnor Carnival Association is organising a Best Dressed Window Competition and a Window Spot as well as the Lantern Parade. There will be awards for the best lanterns.

The Lantern Parade will assemble on the Green in Dudley Road from 4.30pm and make its way to Ventnor Park from 5pm, led by Santa, Vectis Corps of Drums, and Ventnor Comic Jazz Band.

Carols in the Park starts at 6.30pm and will feature many festive favourites, led by the Undercliff Singers.

Mulled wine and mince pies will be provided by Ventnor Enhancement Fund and hotdogs by Ventnor Rotary Club. Tee in the Park will also be serving refreshments.

Santa has said he will make a prominent appearance during the event. 

The day has been organised by Ventnor Carnival Association, Ventnor Enhancement Fund, Ventnor Town Council and St Catherine’s Church.