Vale of Glamorgan Council's Tourism & Events Team have been awarded Shared Prosperity Funding (SPF) from the UK Government to support the Vale's four towns for their Christmas celebrations.

Each year, Cowbridge, Penarth, Llantwit Major, and Barry each put on their own Christmas events which residents' and visitors alike gather to enjoy the festivities. This Christmas, towns are under pressure to make sure people think local when considering preparations for their celebrations.

However, with the additional funding and the support of the Councils' events team, this year's celebrations have been amplified.

The Christmas celebrations kicked off in Penarth on November 19, with the annual light switch on, which will be followed by a day of celebration on December 14 organised by Penarth traders themselves.

With live music, Santa's workshop, the North Pole Post Office where little ones can write to Santa and not one but two Christmas trails where prizes can be one, it promises to be a great day.

The Cowbridge Christmas Parade returned once again on November 26, kicking off a calendar of events in Cowbridge that run through to December 22.

Last year the lantern parade in Llantwit Major drew huge crowds, and this year promises more of the same with Santa and his merry elves leading the musical procession through the town. Taking place on place on December 2, the parade culminates in a festive lantern show at 7pm against the backdrop of the Llantwit Major Town Hall. Working with the Llantwit Major Christmas Committee, the Events team are delighted to be supporting this event once again this year.

Working with Barry Town Council and the Holton Road traders, the Events & Tourism team will be supporting the Barry Christmas festival. This is a three-day event which combines music, food, street entertainers, craft stalls, Santa's Grotto, festive funfair, and a Christmas movie in the park. The Barry Christmas lights were switched on by Santa on Thursday, 30 November with the festivities continuing through to Sunday afternoon.

 Barry High Street, Park Crescent and the Goodsheds are also planning their Christmas celebrations with Christmas at the Park and a Christmas Market at Tramshed.

Cllr Bronwen Brooks, Deputy Leader of the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Places, said: "Our town centres are facing unprecedented challenges, so we're delighted to have secured funding to be able to support them with an event programme that brings people together to showcase the towns in a positive light.

 "We have a reputation for holding great events in the Vale, so to be able to work in partnership with Town Councils and Business groups to elevate these festive events is a great example of working in partnership for the benefit of all.

 "We really hope everyone who attends these events has a wonderful time."

 For further details about the Christmas events programme, and other events in the Vale of Glamorgan, visit: https://www.visitthevale.com/events