THE DECEMBER LOWDOWN – WEEK 3 ONWARDS…

Posted by Francesca De Franco on 12 Dec 2024

December is flying by! Here’s what’s still to come this month…..

‘Churches Together in Ewell’ – Christmas Dinner 

Are you alone on Christmas Day this year? Instead, you can join on of the ‘Churches Together in Ewell for a traditional festive dinner plus festive activities to all who would otherwise be on their own.

Christmas Day – 12:30pm – 4.15pm – at a local church.

Transport can be arranged. No charge. It can feel very challenging to reach out about something like this – but please give it a go. Just by being there yourself you’re likely to help make someone else’s day very special.

To join call 07999 80475 or email Christmas.dinner@dsl.pipex.com.

Bourne Hall’s Christmas Grotto

FREE EVENT: Santa will be in the Bourne Hall Christmas Grotto on  Saturday, 14th and 21st December. Santa will be in the grotto on these Saturdays from 11am-12pm and from 1pm-4pm. On other days, visit the beautiful grotto and post him a letter in the Bourne Hall postbox.

Winter Wonderland Immersive Photo Experience at The Horton

Running until Tuesday, December 24th, 10am – 3pm (closed Sundays and Mondays).

Take your place in a magical scene going through the wardrobe into a winter wonderland. With echoes of Narnia, take a furry coat and pose for your own very special family snaps.

Please note this is a self-guided experience where you will be able to take photos using your own camera phone. The Horton is not selling photographs. It is a drop-in and time-slots are not bookable.

This activity is FREE but donations to the charity are welcome (suggested charity donation £3 per person).

https://thehortonepsom.org/events/winter-wonderland-immersive-photo-experience/

Leatherhead Theatre at Christmas 

Check out Kalli’s round up of what’s on at Leatherhead Theatre throughout December including panto, music and comedy. Including:

Dick Whittington running until the 30th December.

More details here.

Festive Live Music Night @ The Derby Arms 

Head down to The Derby Arms on Thursday 19th for an evening of live music and festive fun with the popular singer Woody Wasey. . Check out socials for the latest updates.

Spaces available in the bar area for drinks, or come and enjoy their festive menu and join the party afterwards!

Further details here.

Christmas Events at St Paul’s and St Barnabas

Celebrate Christmas with St PB with a host events over the festive season from crib to carols, there’s something for everyone starting with Beer & Carols on Friday, December 13th from 7pm.

St Barnabas looks forward to welcoming everyone in the weeks ahead. For the full details, visit: stpb.co.uk/christmas 

Ewell Grove Christmas Fair 2024

On Friday, 13th December (4-6pm), it’s the Ewell Grove Christmas Fair and the whole local community is warmly invited to come along and join in the festive fun.

There will be games and competitions, a delicious barbecue, mulled wine, a TREEmendous selection of prizes to be won in the Christmas Raffle, and more! There are even rumours of Santa himself opening the fair on his way into the Grotto, and that there might even be some extremely localised snow flurries on the playground.

Ewell Grove Primary & Nursery School, 29 West Street, Ewell, KT17 1UZ

Epsom Christchurch – Campfire Carols 

Campfire Carols on Saturday, 14th December (5pm) is great way to get into the festive spirit – traditional Christmas carols around the campfire, and a warming mug of hot chocolate afterwards. It’s the perfect way to round off a bracing walk on the Common (with or without your dogs).

Children’s Christmas Workshop – Grow Cook Enjoy 

Create stunning, edible Christmas decorations with Grow Cook Enjoy on Saturday, 14th December (10am-12pm). This workshop offers a hands-on opportunity to decorate your own gingerbread house.

What to expect:

All-natural ingredients: Only the finest, high-quality ingredients, ensuring a delicious and wholesome treat.

Dietary considerations: Grow Cook Enjoy caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and vegan options.

Creative freedom: Unleash your inner artist and decorate your gingerbread house to perfection.

Expert guidance: Their experienced pastry chef will be on hand to offer tips and tricks.

For more details and booking here.

The Grape Variety – Christmas Funday 

Head down to The Grape Variety on Saturday, 14th December (12pm-5pm) for a fun and relaxed afternoon and really get into the festive spirit.

Cinderella at Epsom Playhouse

Saturday, 14th December 2024 to Saturday, 4th January 2025

Don’t be a pumpkin; grab your glass slippers and get ready to head down to Epsom Playhouse for this classic tale of Cinderella, a kind-hearted girl mistreated by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters. With a little help from her fairy godmother’s magic and a bit of bippity-boppity-boo, she transforms for the royal ball, where she catches the attention of Prince Charming. But when the clock strikes midnight, the illusion fades, leaving only a single glass slipper behind.

Perfect for families, this enchanting production is generously dusted with heartwarming moments, tummy-tickling comedy, and glitzy costumes galore.

Find out more and get your tickets here.

Cinderella (relaxed performance) 

On Friday, January 3rd, you can catch the same smashing pantomime, but with a relaxed atmosphere. If you need to move around, make some noise, and prefer less intense lighting and sound effects, then this is perfect performance.

Find out more and book tickets here.

Best of the 80s Live Band @ Bourne Hall 

Saturday, 14th December (7pm-11pm).

Dust off those shoulder pads, get out your eyeliner and back-comb your hair to within an inch of its life and party with Andrew & Allan’s “Electric 80s” at Bourne Hall.

It’ll be a fabulous night of 80s music from this great party duo and will include the greatest hits from 1980’s legends such as Spandau Ballet, Dead Or Alive, Erasure, Human League, Wham, Tears For Fears, The Jam and many more. It’s the perfect Christmas Party destination!

Book here.

Santa’s Grotto and Traditional Craft Fair for Princess Alice Hospice

Come and meet the real Santa in his grotto at Princess Alice Hospice’s Traditional Christmas Market and Craft Fair on Sunday, 15th December (10am-2pm) at Sandown Park Racecourse.

Meetings with Santa cost £5 per child and you can book up to three children to meet Mr Clause at the same time.
Advanced booking recommended: www.pah.org.uk/santas-grotto/

More details about the Christmas Market here.

£2 per adult entry fee to the market still apply. All proceeds go to Princess Alice Hospice. More details here.

St John’s Stoneleigh – Christmas Services

St John’s Stoneleigh’s usual line up of Christmas services is extended in 2024 with an additional Crib and Christingle service. This has been such a popular event with families in recent years so they have decided to hold it twice (it will be the same service on Christmas Eve held at 3pm and 5pm). The Carol service is on Sunday, 15th December (6.30pm), Midnight Communion is on Christmas Eve at 11.30pm and Christmas Day Celebration is at 10am.

NEAT Christmas Party 

Tickets are now live for the Epsom – NEAT party on Sunday, 15th December (1.00pm-4.00pm).

It promises Christmas fun for all families:

• Meet Father Christmas in the grotto and receive a gift chosen for you
• Sweet hunt
• Christmas games
• Food & drink
• Music
• Football match (kids vs parents)

and much more. For further information please message: neatoffice@yahoo.com 

Carols by Candlelight at Christ Church Ewell 

It’s the all age Carols By Candlelight Family Service at 4pm on Sunday, 15th December. This will be a child friendly service including making things, drama, animal and Lego videos, traditional carols by candle-light and narration. Based on the ‘Brick by Brick’ Christmas story, it will be suitable for all ages. Mince pies and refreshments to follow.

Two Christmas Lunches – the first on Thursday, 19th December and then Churches Together Christmas Day Lunch on Christmas Day plus the regular Sunday services at 10.30am. Email simon@christchurchewell.com.

Epsom RDA & All Saints – Carols at the Stables 

Head down to St Ebba’s Farm, Hook Road on Sunday, 15th December (from 5pm) for a seasonal celebration of carols, food and festive cheer.

See the website for details of how to book your tickets: https://www.epsomrda.org.uk/event/christmas-carols-at-the-stables/ 

Community Christmas Jumper Dinner – St Barnabas Church

St Barnabas Church is holding its Warm Welcome Christmas Jumper Dinner on Monday, 16th December (3-7pm). There’ll be mulled wine, music and carols, Christmas dinner, puddings, raffle and lots of fun and laughter.

If anyone can kindly donate some raffle prizes please contact Allen Price on 07592 542530.

Christ Church Ewell – Free Christmas Lunches 

Are you alone at Christmas this year? If so, join in at one of these Christmas Meals. One is held on Christmas Day itself from 12:30 – 4.15pm (run by Churches Together In Ewell for further details please use the contact details in the left hand of the picture). Or if you are a senior citizen and would like to join with some others from their ‘Chat & Tea’ club then they are also running an earlier lunch on Thursday, 19th December.

Christmas Story Fun at Merland Rise 

Join Merland Rise on Thursday 19th  for a fun 30-minute session of the Nativity story and Christmas crafts!

Why not book a soft play session before or after, and grab a bite at the café? The perfect way to make it a lovely morning out! ️

No need to book for the craft session – and it’s completely FREE.

Ewell Library Christmas Mural Drop-in Craft 

Feel the festive spirit and head along to help decorate Ewell Library’s Christmas tree mural

Whether you’re creating your own Christmas decorations or simply scribbling on some colour, all manner of help is welcome. You can even craft your own Christmas card.

Drop-in on Thursday, 19th December and get stuck in!

Christmas services at St Martin’s, St Stephen’s & St Luke’s

There are plenty of services over the festive period. For more information on the regular services, take a look on the website: www.stmartinsepsom.org

Starstruck Dance Academy – Christmas Workshop 

Starstruck Dance Academy’s Christmas Workshop is taking place on Friday, 20th December (10.30am-2pm) at Auriol Junior School, Stoneleigh.

Details on flyer. Please contact Laura on 07834 698704 to book your space.

Creative Coding @ Ewell Library 

Turn your imagination into digital art and games and explore the world of coding in a creative way at Ewell Library on Friday, 20th December and Saturday, 21st December (2-3pm).

For ages 11+. To book a place email: ewell.library@surreycc.gov.uk

Lego Christmas Story Trail @ Merland Rise 

Bring the whole family for a festive adventure at Merland Rise on Saturday, 21st December from 3-6pm.

Explore the Lego Christmas Story Trail, packed with:

* Fun crafts
* LEGO builds
* Real animals
* Hidden AR LEGO animations bringing the Christmas story to life

Only £3.50 per child (adults FREE), book via the website: https://www.merlandrisechurch.org.uk/ ☕️ Cafe open with food & treats too!

Christmas Magic Shows Starring Ritchie Rosson

Come dressed in your best Christmas outfits and head down to Bourne Hall on Saturday, 21st December for an unforgettable evening of enchantment and wonder. This event is perfect for families looking to add a little magic to their festive celebrations.

This event is specifically designed for kids, offering a fun and interactive experience that will leave them on the edge of their seats. Ritchie Rosson, a talented children’s entertainer, will be showcasing his magical skills and performing jaw-dropping tricks that will leave the audience in awe.

Times:

Three shows at 11am, 1pm, 3pm (45 mins show time – £6 a ticket)

Book here: https://sessami.co/events/ritchierossonschristmasmagicshow

Carols by Candlelight at Christchurch 

Carols by candlelight in a beautiful setting – a Christmas tradition that’s hard to beat. Head down to Christ Church Epsom Common on Sunday, 22nd December at 6pm for this very special occasion. Mince pies and mulled wine served after the service. Everyone welcome.

Giggles Christmas Party 

Book a space for a two-hour Giggles Christmas Party on Sunday, 22nd December (10am-12pm and 1-3pm) via the website but hurry because there are limited spaces. There’ll be soft play, food, biscuit decorating, a gift for each child and lots of Christmas fun.

Bookings can be made here.

Christmas Services at St Mary’s Ewell

St Mary’s, Ewell has Christmas services on Sunday, December 22nd, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day plus Advent Gatherings every Tuesday. See above for further details and head to the Facebook page for latest details.

Try-Sport Christmas Camps

Try-Sport Camps are back for the Christmas holidays! Ebbisham is running a one-day camp on Monday, 23rd December from 9.00am-3.00pm. Places are likely to fill up quickly so book now to avoid disappointment.

For those who have not attended the camps previously, Try-Sport camps are an ideal introduction to a variety of different sports for children aged 7-14 years old. They’re an enjoyable way for children to start playing sport and feature coaching, games and social activities. Children will learn new sports skills, make friends and grow their confidence!

Cost: Ebbisham Members £32 per day/ Non-Members £35 per day.
10% discount will be applied to one booking when two siblings are registered on the same day.

To book or for more information, please email admin@ebbishamsportsclub.com.
Disco Totz Christmas Disco and Party 

Tickets are selling fast for the Disco Totz Christmas parties on Monday, 23rd December.

Party includes:
1 hour disco
Dance with Santa
Rainbow face paint
Disco dancing
Instruments
Rainbow parachute
Bubbles ticket
Photo opportunity with Santa

All children receive a present. There’s a 50% discount for siblings and no charge for adults!
️ Book tickets on the website: www.discototz.com

Nativity Festival at Epsom Methodist Church 

Get into the spirit of Christmas with the perfect afternoon out on Monday, 23rd December (12pm until 3pm). There’ll be plenty to do and see, make and eat. Be the character in the nativity that you really wanted to be, hear the story of Christmas and belt out the familiar tunes. There’ll even be mini donkeys!  Offered to you with love from the amazing team at EMC.

Carols by Candlelight at Merland Rise 

Head down to Merland Rise church on Christmas Eve for an evening of traditional carols, the Christmas story, and a warm, candlelit atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to celebrate with family and friends!

Service starts at 6:00 PM
Festive refreshments from 5:15 PM

St Giles’ & St George’s Church Ashtead Sparkling Light Nativity 

Families with children under 10 head to St Giles’ & St George’s Church Ashtead on Christmas Eve (10am-11am) for a special ‘Pop up’ nativity service. Come dressed up as your favourite nativity character, or borrow one of their costumes, and join in with this special ‘sparkly’ performance. No need to book just come along. Visit the web site to find out more: https://sgsg.churchsuite.com/events/dxecqwg2

Ewell St. Mary’s Morris Men Boxing Day Tour of Ewell 

The Ewell St. Mary’s Morris Men annual Boxing Day Tour of Ewell starts outside The Famous Green Man at 12pm on Thursday, 26th December and then tours to various dance spots throughout Ewell Village. They’ll be presenting the ESMMM Mummers Play at The Upper Mill, Kingston Road and you’ll be able to meet the team in The Wheatsheaf at 4pm to and find out why Morris is such a great social activity.

For full details and itinerary go here.

New Year’s Eve Party @ The Famous Green Man 

Get ready for party of the Year! Celebrate in style at The Famous Green Man on NYE. All welcome and it’s free entry. A great night is guaranteed with their special guest DJ Barry

Kitchen opening hours are 12pm-8pm. Book a table now and stay after delicious food to cheer when clock strikes Midnight.

Epsom On Ice at Epsom Downs Racecourse 

Head down to Epsom Downs Racecourse for Epsom On Ice for ice skating for the whole family – fun guaranteed!

Running until January 5th, 2025 (excluding Christmas Day). Skating sessions are 45 minutes and sessions start at 10am (last session at 8pm).

Booking in advance is advised to secure your spot. Tickets will be available on the gate every day subject to availability. For further information check out Dee’s blog here with booking details.

Warm Wednesdays @ Epsom Methodist Church 

Warm Wednesdays return for the third year every Wednesday from now until the end of March

No booking is required, just drop in – you are welcome

Advice and support
Free hot drinks all day
Free tasty soup and roll for lunch
Family after school club with crafts and games
Free freshly prepared evening meal
❤️Friendship and Community❤️

Epsom Methodist Church, Ashley Road, KT18 5AQ

King’s Church Epsom – Free Friday 

King’s Church is opening its doors again this year to provide a Warm Space and free hot meal. They’ll be open from 3-6pm on Fridays from the 1st November to 28th February and are organising some fun things for people to do too.

More details here: thekingschurch.org/friday 

Craft My Day Festive Craft Workshops 

All of Craft my Day’s December workshops have a Christmas twist. Book now here for a fun filled experience!

Mayfield Lavender Glasshouse

Mayfield Lavender has so many wonderful Christmas events happening including wreath making workshops, Roz & The Heart & Soul Choir singing carols and late night shopping and Christmas bar events. See the full details for all of these and get the scoop on Mayfield Lavender’s festive afternoon tea in Kat’s post here.

Enjoy!

Fran x