Barking and Dagenham got a festive makeover at the weekend, as a packed day of Christmas events saw the council switch on its Christmas lights in front of 3,000 residents. 

Barking Mad about Christmas returned on Saturday 4 December with a whole host of free festive entertainment including carol singing, arts and crafts, dance performances, magic shows, a Christmas singalong and even real reindeer. 

Santa saw 500 children in his grotto, who all received a gift from Father Christmas, as well as the opportunity to join in a special elf hunt around Barking town centre and Barking Market. 

Christmas has arrived in Barking and Dagenham, and it was such a wonderful sight to see thousands of residents bring some Christmas cheer to the borough.

A number of workshops also took place, including holly wreath making, tree decorating, and letter writing to Santa, which were run by event sponsors, McLaren and The Party Box. Local library, the Barking Learning Centre, also got involved with a fun workshop creating festive hats.

London’s famous bear, Paddington, was also seen roaming around Barking spreading some seasonal cheer.

Councillor Saima Ashraf, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Community Leadership and Engagement, said: “Christmas has arrived in Barking and Dagenham, and it was such a wonderful sight to see thousands of residents bring some Christmas cheer to the borough. 

“I had the honour of turning on our beautiful Christmas lights, alongside Mayoral Consort Cllr Evelyn Carpenter, Paddington Bear and Santa! I’m delighted Mad About Christmas was able to return after last year, and everyone seemed to have lots of fun and got into the festive spirit.”