November sees three Willow Wood Hospice fundraising events coming up which will really get you in the mood for the forthcoming festive season.

The Winter Fete is the first on Saturday 13 November and this year is being held at Stalybridge Celtic's Bower Fold ground, not at the Hospice itself. This is in order to maintain social distancing, but will still have the same great mix of stalls – ideal if you have yet to start your Christmas shopping.

Refreshments will also be available and Father Christmas himself will be making a special guest appearance. Starting at 11am, it’s just £2 to enter with children under 12 free.

The following week, one of Willow Wood’s most-loved events is back – the Garden of 1,000 Lights. 

Starting on Tuesday 16 November and then every Tuesday until 14 December, the beautiful hospice gardens are festooned with many thousands of twinkling lights, creating wonderful illuminated displays.  

After wandering through the grounds you’ll be able to sit in the lounge area with hot chocolate (with or without Baileys), mulled wine, hot Vimto, tea or coffee and, of course, delicious mince pies or yule log. The reception gift shop will also be open for purchases of Christmas cards, calendars, Willow Wood Gin and other items ideal for presents or just to treat yourself.

As always, the Garden of Lights is free to enter, but this year places must be pre-booked. Just go to www.willowwood.info/gardenoflights. 

And if you’re in the mood for a party, book tickets for the Dinner & Dance taking place on Friday 19 November at Smokies Park Hotel. Ideal for a special evening out with your partner, a girly get-together or even your workplace Christmas party tickets are just £45 which includes a three course meal, fantastic entertainment with the Andy Powell Swing Band, plus special guests and a disco. Book on www.willowwood.info/dinnerdance. 

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