Over the three days of the Festival, we were delighted to welcome many hundreds of visitors to our warm and festive Church, undeterred by the atrocious weather.
A record-breaking 50 Christmas trees were on display, including several brand-new contributors. The craftsmanship and imagination that was poured into designing and constructing the trees was truly remarkable. Visitors, including long-time Haddenham residents, often commented with amazement that they were unaware of how much goes on in our village.
On Friday morning, we welcomed pupils from St. Mary's School and the Haddenham Toddler Group, all of whom had made individual decorations for their respective trees. Later that afternoon, St. Mary's pupils returned with their parents and carers to enjoy 'Carols with Cookies and Hot Chocolate'.
Saturday and Sunday saw a bustling Church. There was a Family Quiz based on the trees on display which visitors of all ages were keen to engage with, while children enjoyed Christmas craft activities in the afternoons. A varied programme of live musical entertainment also took place each day which everyone thoroughly enjoyed, and of course there was no shortage of delicious cake!
We are incredibly grateful for the generous donations received, particularly during a time of financial hardship for many. This year's chosen charities, Thame Foodbank and Friends of St. Mary's (Fabric Fund) will benefit greatly from the community's kindness.
This annual event wouldn't be possible without the collective efforts of so many. A huge thank you to the organisations and businesses who displayed trees, the volunteers who welcomed guests and served refreshments, the talented cake makers, the musicians who brought festive cheer and, most importantly the entire Haddenham community for their continued support.
Thank you again on behalf of the organising team
Sharon Smith
(Editor: there are lots more photographs to enjoy in the Galleries section of this website).
In Other News...
