Alconbury Weald starts new Christmas traditions

With just under 800 families now calling Alconbury Weald home, the new community is establishing its own traditions and ways to celebrate Christmas. This year families, friends and neighbours have gathered together for a variety of festive events and supported local families in need by making donations through a Giving Tree at the local primary school. 

From waving to Mrs Claus as she cycled around Alconbury Weald giving out sweets; joining the children of Ermine Street Church Academy to sing carols around the Christmas tree on the school plaza; enjoying an unforgettable breakfast experience with Santa at Bohemia; or attending the new Youth Group’s Christmas Party there is something for everyone. For those who want to escape it all – or build up more of an appetite! – the community is also holding its first Boxing Day walk this year.

It has also been a very busy time of the year for the Alconbury Weald Church, with services and events including an interactive Christingle, carols around the firepit, an interactive Christmas Eve family service and a Christmas Communion circle. 

Although Christmas is a time of joy for many it can also be challenging, especially with the current cost of living crisis.  After discussions with local charities, who advised of a greater need for food than presents this year, Alconbury Weald’s Community Association arranged for a Giving Tree to be hosted at Ermine Street Church Academy.

Tags were placed on the tree with items needed such as coffee, pasta and biscuits and the community were invited to take as many tags as you felt they could donate, and drop the food off at the school, which was donated to local families.

Rachel Arnold, Communities and Partnerships for Alconbury Weald, said: “Christmas is always a special time of year and it’s been fantastic to see so many people come along and enjoy all the festive activities, but also to support each other and neighbours across the local area this Christmas.”

Revd Rob Paddison said: “The significance of Christmas comes alive with the gathering of the community for carol singing and telling of the Nativity story. It has been great to see the church, school, Urban&Civic and other partners make sure everyone at Alconbury Weald feels the magic of Christmas through events, festive fellowship and the support of friends and neighbours."

Photo credit: Time George