With Christmas just around the corner, there will be the chance to enjoy all things festive in Helston this December.

Helston Chamber of Commerce and Industry has announced plans for late night shopping and events on Fridays throughout December. 

Late night shopping events will take place on Friday, December 9, 16 and 23 from 5pm to 9pm in the town centre.

Christmas Late Night Shopping on the 9th will begin with traditional carols sung by a school choir. This will be followed by a welcome by Santa, the Mayor of Helston, and the Chair of the Chamber of Commerce by the Christmas tree at Grylls Monument.

Following the official opening at 5pm by the Monument at the bottom of Coinagehall, there is said to be an evening of festivities including selfies with Santa, and the Christmas Carols Choir.

Participating shops, cafes and restaurants will remain open from 5pm until late, for a chance for people to purchase Christmas presents for loved ones.

Confirmed activities for the late-night shopping events include:

Santa Selfies: A chance to have a picture taken with Santa as he greets shoppers along Meneage Street, Church Street and Coianagehall Street.

Helston’s Nutcracker Trail: A map will lead to 17 different locations. Locate ten Nutcracker toy soldiers and enter a lucky draw to win a special gift.

Shop and win a Luxury Hamper: Every time you shop at one of the participating stores and cafes on any of the three nights, you’ll receive a coupon. All you have to do is fill in your name and email or phone, drop it off at the shop and you’ll be entered into the lucky draw on December 23, for the hamper to be received on December 24.

Christmas Groupie at the Emporium: Enter the soon-to-open shop and have your photo taken with its Christmas pop-up selfie board. Take the photo solo, with friends, or with the whole family.

Christmas Card Competition: Top 30 card designs created by pre-teens aged five to 12 will be on display. Santa and the Mayor of Helston will be judging and awarding a winner. The winner will receive a Deluxe 168-piece deluxe art kit. The winning festive card design will be mounted, framed, and presented to the winner. Additionally, ready for the festive season next year, 1,000 jumbo Christmas Cards will be printed with the winning design. Proceeds from the sale of the winner’s Christmas card design will be donated to their school.

Helston’s Town Band: The band is scheduled to play at 6.30pm and 7.30pm on the three evenings.

Live bands: There will be live performances outside Bowdens Home Hardware, next to Guildhall, and along Meneage Street.

Christmas storytelling: From 5pm to 6pm at 42 The Living Room in Coinagehall Street on all three evenings.

Christmas Market:  At the Guildhall for the three evenings from 5pm til late, organised by Helston Town Council. A few stalls are still available.

Best Dressed Christmas Window Display: Will be awarded to a shop or café. Helston CIC presents the judging and award.

Shops and pubs are organising their activities with drink tastings, live music and a craft market.

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The Chamber of Commerce said: "It's three evenings packed with festive family fun. We look forward to seeing you, and to welcoming you back to the town centre.

"Let's shop local and support our town, make sure you visit at least one of the three late-night shopping events and why not finish off the evening with a mince pie and hot chocolate in one of the coffee shops and, for adults, a festive tipple in a pub?"