Community groups and businesses have joined forces to create a Christmas programme for families and friends.
A series of fun events are being arranged with St Albans City and District council to entertain people in the area, to attract visitors and boost the economy.
One of the main highlights will be the Christmas lights switch-on on November 17. More than 12,000 people are expected at the event and will include a Santa's grotto, fun fair rides, live music, food and drink and gift stalls.
Cllr Mandy McNeil, cabinet member responsible for business, culture and tourism, said: "Our businesses employ locally, spend locally, invest locally and donate time, cash and products and services locally.
"It has been a tough year for retail and hospitality. Many of our businesses which are the lifeblood of our local economy rely on the Christmas shopping period to help keep their doors open.
Businesses and community groups are joining forces to arrange Christmas events in St Albans this year
"We want to raise awareness of and help those who find Christmas challenging. It can be an extremely stressful period and we would like to find ways to be inclusive by ensuring that some events are free to attend.
"St Albans has an incredible community spirit for giving. I am grateful to those who have put up their hands to join the steering group and to those to date who have volunteered to sponsor or host an activity or event.”
A meeting was held last Tuesday (September 3) by the steering group to create a plan. St Albans business improvement district (BID) will run Santa's Post Office from November 14 to December 23 at Christopher Place Shopping Centre.
They will also be running a treasure trail around the city, offering the chance for people to win a gift card. The Mayor's carol concert will also take place on December 8 in front of the clock tower.
Those included in the steering group are the Cathedral, 92.6FM Radio Verulam and Save St Albans Pubs. St Albans Film Festival, Eyes on St Albans, St Albans Mums Group, the Herts Advertiser, St Columba’s College, St Saviours Church and the Cottonmill and Sopwell Hub have also volunteered.
A number of charity partners, including St Albans and District Foodbank, may also benefit from the events.
Cllr McNeil said: “Christmas is a very important time for families and it is also vital for the success of our shops, pubs, restaurants and many other local businesses.
"Collaboration between business and community will help to create a vibrant atmosphere in the city centre and surrounding towns so that they become top destinations over the festive season for residents and visitors alike.”
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