A guide to filling up your Staffordshire festive diary

People in Staffordshire are being reminded about the many ways to have a nostalgic Christmas in Staffordshire as part of a new campaign.

Whether shopping for that unique gift, looking for an overnight stay, a night out or something festive to do with the family, the #ChristmasInStaffs campaign can help. Showcasing the best of the county’s attractions, restaurants, shops and bars, along with other hidden high street gems, the campaign will help people create a full festive diary whilst supporting local town centres and businesses.

Helping get the message out there is a video featuring 12-year-old Abi Smith from Stafford with a trip around her favourite places and businesses, set against a special poem “Kinver or Leek, by the Chase or near the Peaks” there’s a Staffordshire town, village and high street waiting for you this Christmas’.   People are being encouraged to share the video to help others discover the local shops and places that are bringing Christmas to life.  People can watch the video at https://youtu.be/aa9YAm1M_U8.

A brand new digital interactive map of seasonal activities and events for people to fill up their festive calendar is also available to view and download from Enjoy Staffordshire’s website at www.enjoystaffordshire.com/christmas

Over 30 local businesses are featured in the campaign which launches ahead of Small Business Saturday on 3 December, the national campaign to encourage everyone to support local shops and local jobs in the run up to Christmas.

Philip White, Deputy Leader at Staffordshire County Council and Chair of Enjoy Staffordshire said:

“Staffordshire is a great place to live in and visit with bustling towns and cities, lots to do and a huge variety of shops, attractions and hospitality businesses.

“This campaign will help remind people about all the great things to do here, on their doorstep, especially in the run up to Christmas. There’s a whole host of nostalgic festive gems just waiting for people to explore. This campaign really showcases that.

“Supporting our smaller independent businesses and shops, especially at Christmas is really important and this is where people can help out by shopping and spending their money locally.

“People can help spread the joy of exploring Staffordshire and help local businesses at the same time by sharing the videos and posts across social media and using the hashtag #ChristmasInStaffs.  You can also see what Christmas events and activities are happening near you on the Enjoy Staffordshire website.”

One local business supporting the campaign is Magic by Candlelight based in Stafford.

Shez Tucker from the shop said:

“We love people to shop locally and keep independent businesses going.

“It’s great seeing people face to face and helping them find the perfect, unique gift.  And you’ll find that here in the centre of Stafford.”

#ChristmasInStaffs is being delivered by Staffordshire County Council in partnership with the district and borough councils, Enjoy Staffordshire and We are Staffordshire.