Dreaming of a White Christmas


Festive season begins with lights, Santa - and snow

Snow is set to fall on Westfield's Southern Terrace this Thursday (13 November) as the Christmas festivities begin.

In the Atrium, in the centre of the mall, 95.8 Capital FM's breakfast show host Johnny Vaughan and two special guests will be on hand to switch on over a million low energy LED lights, creating giant twinkling trees under the shopping centre's iconic roof.

A 30ft tree will greet shoppers at Shepherd's Bush Central line station, and as well as the snow on the Southern Terrace - the pedestrian street of restaurants - the area will be lined with illuminated trees.

Santa's grotto will go interactive in spectacular 3D style - and it's the first of its kind in London.

Santa's Wishkingdom is a sparkling make-believe world which will charm both young and old. The experience begins with an enchanting 3D journey, followed by elves and a Wishfinder Fairy who will help visitors make and catch their own special wishes.

The festive lighting scheme was designed by world experts Blachere Illumination, known for innovative displays including the diamond panthers for Cartier in 5th Avenue, New York, and the Eiffel Tower illumination in 2000.

At Westfield London over one million LED lights will create a forest of light, five glacier-shaped glass canopies and animated facades. 90 percent less energy will be consumed by using LED lights instead of traditional Christmas lights.

Santa's Wishkingdom is free of charge, but visitors are encouraged to make a £1 donation to 95.8 Capital FM's Help a London Child, to help even more children's dreams come true this Christmas.

The first lucky children to visit Santa's Wishkingdom will be from St. Clement & St. James Community Development Project in Notting Hill and The Brunswick Club for Young People in Fulham - both childrens' groups funded by Help a London Child.

Santa's Wishkingdom is unveiled on November 13th and will be open to visitors up to and including December 24th.

12 November 2008

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Thursday's Programme

5:00pm: Snow begins to fall on the Southern Terrace

6:30pm: 95.8 Capital FM's Johnny Vaughan and two special guests switch the lights on, followed by a music performance.

Westfield opening attracted thousands

ActonW3.com and HammersmithToday.co.uk