Celebrations of funk and festive events planned across Stafford in build-up to Christmas
The run-up to the festive season is set to be marked by a series of fun events across Stafford.
LR Partnerships is promoting three events in the county town to help people get ready for the festive season and help promote local businesses.
Two of the events are taking place at the White Eagle Club, with the first event being a Disco Nite on Saturday, October 11.
The event, which is aimed at an over-30s audience, will run from 7.30pm until midnight, and will feature The Disco Divas, a five-piece group with a set which includes well-known disco tracks, club classics and popular tunes spanning the '70s, '80s and beyond.
DJ Stu Haycock from Vibe1 Radio will host the night and provide music before and after the live performance, as well as during the interval, playing a carefully chosen mix of disco favourites, '70s and '80s hits and modern classics.
Tickets are priced at £10 in advance and can be purchased online at the Disco Nite with the Disco Diva's ticket site.
A spokeswoman for LR Partnerships said: "The Disco Nite has been designed to appeal to those over 30 who want to experience a proper show with a live performance and a DJ delivering a club-style atmosphere.
"Whether you are a fan of classic disco or modern dance music, there will be plenty of opportunity to dance, sing along and enjoy a full evening of entertainment.
"Disco music has remained popular for decades, from its origins in the 1970s to its influence on today’s music.
"This event celebrates that legacy, blending the best of the disco era with well-loved tracks from later decades, offering something for both long-time fans and those discovering the music for the first time."
The other event at the White Eagle Club will be the return of the annual Christmas Market on Sunday, December 7, an event which attracts more than 600 visitors every year.
The market brings together local businesses, independent crafters, artisans and retailers, offering a huge selection of unique items, from traditional Christmas gifts and decorations to handmade products and speciality goods.
The club’s bar will be open throughout the day, with both hot and cold food available, while street food vendors will also be on hand, and a highlight of the day will be the Santa’s Grotto, with children able to meet Santa and his elves.
A spokeswoman for LR Partnerships said: "The Annual Christmas Market is one of the first festive markets of the season and has been running successfully for over ten years.
"Its reputation for quality stalls, great organisation and a welcoming environment has made it a must-visit event for many people across Stafford and the surrounding areas.
"With free admission and free parking, it offers excellent value for families and individuals looking for a day out.
"Visitors can enjoy browsing a wide range of stalls while also taking advantage of the on-site facilities.
"The event supports local traders and gives the community a place to come together, celebrating the start of the festive season."
Halloween street party
Finally, the Stafford Music and Food Festival returns on Friday, October 31 with a Halloween Street Party from 4pm to 9pm on Stafford Market Square.
The event will feature a packed programme of live performances, showcasing local talent, featuring the likes of Dappa Dance, Ken Walker, Sundance School of Dance, Happy Vibes and The Blonnettes.
Market Street will host a selection of craft stalls with a spooky theme and a fancy dress competition will take place, encouraging visitors to come dressed in their best spooky or creative costumes for the chance to win prizes.
The Halloween Street Party will also include a wide range of street food vendors, mobile bars and late-night shopping, while pubs like Ye Olde Rose and Crown, The Doghouse, The Bear Stafford, The Lamb, The Coach and Horses, The Grapes, The Market Vaults, The Shrewsbury Arms and The Pickled Pig will all welcome festival-goers, allowing them to bring street food inside with the purchase of a drink.
For families, extended opening hours will be in place at The Empourium, The Lamb, Vine Hotel and Pub, and The Market Vaults.
A spokeswoman for LR Partnerships said: "The Halloween Street Party is organised by LR Partnership Events in partnership with Vibe 1 Radio.
"The event would not be possible without the support of local businesses and sponsors, including Carthy Accountants, Casa, M & M Legal, Top of the World and Robert Nicholls Funeral Directors.
"Their contributions help keep the festival free to attend and ensure it continues to benefit the town centre and its businesses.
"This event is an important part of Stafford’s cultural calendar, providing opportunities for local performers, traders and businesses while giving residents and visitors a reason to come into the town and enjoy what it has to offer."
