Love Basingstoke will be spreading seasonal cheer and kick-starting the festive period at the Top of the Town in style next week.

Visitors to Basingstoke’s Top of the Town will be able to start their Christmas celebrations and enjoy free activities, festive character performers and a market with local stallholders and music, funded by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, between 5pm and 8pm on Friday 14 November.

Warming up for their performances in this year’s Anvil Arts family pantomime running throughout December, Kian Zomorodian as Aladdin and Natasha Cayabyab as Princess Jasmine will be appearing by the Christmas tree in Market Place from 5.30pm.

Keeping shoppers entertained, the Bouncing Snowmen will bring Christmas cheer. Street performer Elf and Safety will be panicking that ‘Christmas is coming!’. There will be a live performance from singer songwriter Riley K and Lovelock DJ will be spinning festive tunes outside The Willis Museum.

For those looking for a festive challenge, free fairground games with a Christmas twist will test their skills including knocking the elf off the shelf or hoopla-ing a Christmas tree.

Children can also get involved in free festive craft sessions to decorate a wooden bauble and 3D wooden trees with local artists Lizzy Price and Louise Hight to take home afterwards. The Love Basingstoke team will also have a festive logo competition, and more craft activities to enjoy.

Visitors can capture memories from Festive Friday in the Love Basingstoke Christmas-themed photobooth. The snaps will be sent to them digitally, after the event.

And there will be plenty of opportunities to sample festive treats and find unique gifts and treats for loved ones while supporting local independent businesses as part of a special Christmas market. Items for sale will include jewellery, homemade brownies, cookies and cakes, beer, cider and spirits, knitted and crocheted gifts, candles, wood carvings and children’s craft packs.

Businesses in the Top of the Town will be offering foodie treats from outside their premises, including Chennai Express, Da Mariù and Gabardine Bar.

Cabinet Member for Sports, Leisure and Culture Cllr Kerry Morrow said: “For those wanting to get into the spirit of Christmas early, Festive Friday has lots of entertainment and activities to kick-start the celebrations.

“Whether searching for a unique gift for a loved one, looking to entertain the children for an evening, or simply spending time together, Festive Friday offers all this while supporting small businesses and local traders.

“Don’t forget to keep an eye on the Love Basingstoke social media channels for any last minute changes to the schedule and more Christmas events across the borough.”

Following Festive Friday, Christmas events will be taking place in Festival Place, The Malls and around the borough. Visitors can find out more information on www.LoveBasingstoke.co.uk.