On Friday the 22nd of November, me and 2 of my friends went to the Christmas Lights Switch On, located by the bell tower in Epsom, expecting to be able to have a laugh at a small Christmas tree and a few pathetic stalls.
However, our expectations were pleasantly proved wrong.
The event started at 4pm, and the first thing that came to my attention was the strong aroma of spices and candy floss which originated from several food stalls, such as the Epsom Pantry stall.
Many young performers, coming from academies including that of 'Starstruck Dance' and 'Protegem Dance', came on stage and sang out Christmas songs, enticing a crowd of spectators.
Game stalls with large signs advertising fun entertainment were dotted along Epsom Market, and they indeed provided me with much entertainment.
The pride of my evening was shooting over enough panels which entitled me to a little stuffed toy, whom I dubbed ‘Rupert’.
Laughter from children and adults alike could be heard in the crowd from far away after repeatedly trying and failing to attain the large stuffed bears.
Alongside the usual teacups and game stalls which beckoned people to give it their best shot for an array of possible rewards, was a Ferris wheel which I rode alone.
Despite me being startled by the unexpected speed, it gave me a good vantage point for the lights that eventually turned on at 6.30pm with the presence of the mayor, councilor Steve Bridger.
After discussing with some of the people running the stalls, it seemed that this event had pulled in a good crowd, perhaps due to the free entry and fairly generous number of things to do (as far as smaller local Christmas events go) that appeal to people from a variety of ages.
