Now in its 19th year, the famous, annual Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival, held early in December, sees thousands of visitors flock to view over 180 theme-decorated Christmas trees, exhibited in various different locations within Brighstone and its surrounding areas.

For 2015, with more beautiful trees being entered each year, we are delighted to announce yet another, much-needed venue at The Isle of Wight Pearl on the Military Road at Brighstone, who have kindly agreed to the use of their large conservatory next to their restaurant/café.

Other locations include: St Mary’s church; the Methodist church; the Wilberforce hall; the Reading Rooms/Social Club; and The ‘Three Bishops’ Public House, all in Brighstone village; in St Peter and St Paul’s church in neighbouring Mottistone.

The 2015 festival will begin on Wednesday 9th December at 7pm , with the Earl Mountbatten Hospice tree lighting ceremony, and carol service in Brighstone church attended by Nigel Hartley CEO of the Hospice, accompanied by other hospice staff members, and also Cllrs Charles Chapman and Lora Peacey-Wilcox, Chair and Vice Chair of the Isle of Wight Council with Cllrs Ian Ward and Connie Cowley.

Daily Viewing from 10am to 5pm commences the next day (Thursday 10th Dec). At 3.30pm in the Methodist church, the very special carol concert with children from Brighstone Primary School, will take place with tree lighting by Cllr Bob Seely. All welcome.

The four days of this major festival will be packed with lots going on. There will be gift and craft fairs (ideas for Christmas presents); Handbell ringing; Lace-making demonstrations; A “mini market”; A winter BBQ; Carol singing; The Brighstone School play and the fantastic Nativity Pageant (see below, last performed two years ago and now to be re-enacted again in the superb setting of Mottistone Manor grounds); Musical entertainment including: The Credorer Ensemble; The Rhymes and Chimes of Christmas; Organ recital; and a chance to sing along with Brighstone Village Society.

There really is something for everyone and, of course, don’t forget the superb array of beautifully theme-decorated Christmas Trees on display in seven different locations which have to be seen to be believed! There will be some spectacular concerts during the festival and into the following week, and each one will be very different, promising plenty of variety.

By popular demand we are pleased to welcome again Brighstone Barnacles and the Slipshod Singers in concert on the Friday, 11th December at 7.30pm in Brighstone church and on the Saturday 12th December at 4.30pm The Isle of Wight High Sheriff, Ron Holland, will be attending the Carols and Crib Blessing service at Mottistone church.

On Sunday December 13th at 3.45pm the Nativity Pageant will be performed in the grounds of Mottistone Manor. (Last presented in 2013 to a packed audience). Don’t miss this re-enactment of the Christmas story with local actors and musicians. Admission charge: Adults £3, Children Free. Free parking is available at the National Trust Car Park.

At 7.00pm the spectacular ‘Stars of Wonder’ variety concert with music to suit all tastes will be held in Brighstone church. Due to the popularity of this concert early seating is recommended.

The Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival will be a great day out for all the family.

Refreshments will be available daily at many of the venues: mulled wine and roast chestnuts, homemade soups, cakes and biscuits, tea, coffee and soft drinks, and soup and crusty bread lunches will be served on the Saturday from 12 till 2.30pm in the Scout Centre, also don’t miss the winter BBQ at “7” Bistro, opposite the church.