How did we start?

In 2003 a small group of friends decided to fund-raise for two local churches and used an idea borrowed from a small Midlands village, inviting displays of all kinds of Christmas tree, charging a small entrance fee, and giving visitors the chance to vote for their favourite tree. Using home-grown expertise, talents and enthusiasm fifty-seven trees were entered in the first festival which generated enough TV and press interest to confound the sceptics and thus establish an annual celebration.

How did we grow?

Over the ensuing years the numbers of participants and displays have increased and there is no end to people's ingenuity. Individuals, families, charities, churches, schools, shops, businesses, clubs and societies, all with links to Brightlingsea - bring trees to decorate in situ, some on a Christmas theme, some funny and some to reflect a business or organisation.  Each year different activities are added to keep the Festival interesting and the festive firs and carolling choirs ensure fun for all the family. Over the years many hundreds of pounds have been raised for local and national charities.

Why should you come?

An average of 100 trees are displayed in All Saints' Church; all are beautiful, thought provoking or comical and they bring in excess of two and a half thousand people to admire them in return for a small entrance fee.   More than 95 local residents bake enough cakes, pies, scones, pastries, tarts and refreshments to feed the crowds and in all over 300 people are involved in organising and running the Festival.

During the two days of the Festival, choirs, soloists, organists, pianists and instrumentalists play and sing for visitors adding to the delights. There is a special ticket event on Saturday night and the Festival closes with carols for everyone on Sunday evening. There is a special Christmas Stall and a Christmas Pantry that between them sell festive decorations, presents and edible goodies at very reasonable prices.

What can you do?

The Festival has become a beloved annual Brightlingsea tradition as everyone delights in the special Christmas magic breathed in through the joyous atmosphere and twinkling trees. There is something to interest all ages from the winter wonderland effect of a fairy light strewn path from the lych gate to the church door, to the clever jokes and elaborate decorations that sparkle on the trees and the age-old glory of the nativity figures. Children enjoy the seasonal quiz with a personalised certificate for the winners, while many others have a soft spot for the hot roasted chestnuts. Families, friends and individuals like to meet up at the Festival to enjoy together the start of Christmas celebrations, often using the convenient shuttle bus service to get everyone together at the same time and everyone likes to vote for their favourite tree.