December is here! A month full of festive fun and entertainment, with lots going on in Weymouth at this special time of year, and I hope you will join me for Carols by the Coast on Saturday, 6th December. This free event is taking place at the Christmas tree in New Bond Street this year, and the Salvation Army Band will be playing some festive favourites, which is sure to spread lots of Christmas cheer! The fun starts from 5 pm to 6 pm.
I also launched the Mayor’s Christmas Fund and will soon be revealing how much was raised and where the funds will be distributed. Keep an eye on social media for details.
Looking back to November and reflecting on some of the events that took place during the month, I was delighted to be a part of Weymouth’s annual bonfire night and firework display on November 5th. The excitement built as crowds gathered on the beach and seafront to watch as the bonfire was lit, followed by the grand finale of the firework display, which created a wonderful atmosphere.
I was honoured to be invited to the very moving official opening of the Standing with Giants Falklands Tribute at the Nothe Fort. This included life-sized silhouettes of the 255 military personnel and 3 civilians who lost their lives during the Falklands conflict in 1982.
It was a privilege to be a part of the poignant Remembrance Sunday service and parade on Sunday, 9th November. I would like to thank all those who joined us at the service and all those who laid a wreath as we came together to pay tribute to our Armed Forces – past, present, and future.
We all got into the festive spirit on Saturday, 29th November, as Weymouth’s Christmas lights were switched on, which I was thrilled to be a part of. This followed a great day of activities and entertainment, including the elf parade – what a wonderful sight it was to see hundreds of elves walking through the town centre!
December is jam-packed with fun events for all to enjoy, starting with We Are Weymouth’s Steampunk Weekend from Saturday, 6th to Sunday, 7th December. On Sunday, 21st December, watch as hundreds of Santas race across Weymouth Beach for the wonderful Chase the Pudding run. This event is in aid of the Will Mackaness Trust, and I would encourage you to come on down and cheer on all those taking part in support of such a worthy cause.
It wouldn’t be Christmas in Weymouth without the annual harbour swim, which takes place on the big day itself! On Thursday, 25th December, hundreds of brave souls will swim across Weymouth Harbour, often in fancy dress, to raise money for Weymouth and Portland Lions Club.
In the run-up to Christmas, there are some free parking dates to take advantage of on Saturday 6th December and Monday 22nd December. This will be in Dorset Council-operated town centre car parks, including Cosens Quay, North Quay, Governors Lane, Harbourside, Melcombe Regis, Park Street, Pavilion, Pavilion Forecourt, Royal Yard and Swannery. Perfect for some last-minute shopping.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. See you in 2026!
Cllr Caroline Nickinson
Mayor of Weymouth
