It is a bright Friday morning and the borough is already buzzing. Shops are busy, the malls are packed and the pre-Christmas rush is in full swing.

Today’s edition lands a little later than usual. The structure is slightly different because there are key community announcements to share before we move into the weekend events. We have gathered the activities that genuinely matter this weekend. Pick one and get involved, it is all part of the season.

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Waltham Cross town centre has reopened after a major regeneration project funded by central government. The upgrade includes new green spaces, a refurbished sports pavilion, a living green wall and improved walking and cycling routes. The town now feels cleaner, greener and far more welcoming for residents and visitors.
Read more: https://ow.ly/sQf450XBVKe

Hoddesdon Library is launching a Design a Dragon competition starting 8 December. Children can pick up an entry form in the library and join the Dragon Hunt in the Children’s Library at the same time. Entries close on 11 January. This is a chance for young artists to show off their most creative dragon designs

Isabel Hospice has relaunched Gift of Time, highlighting the vital impact of its volunteers and encouraging new people to get involved. Volunteers support patients and families, keep shops running and help raise essential funds, often gaining new skills and friendships along the way.

Hospitality Volunteer Nikki says the most rewarding part is “knowing I may have made a difference to patients and families during very difficult times… the chats, the cups of tea, the little things that show someone cares.”

Anyone considering a meaningful New Year commitment can explore roles supporting patients, working in one of the 17 shops or helping in the community.
Find out more: [email protected] or 01707 382500 (option 4).

H.A.B.S Strength and Mind has opened its Christmas Appeal, asking residents to support families and children facing hardship this season. The charity provides early intervention, emotional wellbeing support, crisis help and practical assistance for those struggling. CEO Leigh Cole is encouraging the community to get involved, noting that every contribution helps a young person through a difficult Christmas.

Donate on GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/c2ee67386

Buy a gift from our Amazon Wish List: https://www.amazon.co.uk/hz/wishlist/ls/1RLN6Y4YS8ODA

Get involved: habsfamily.co.uk/get-involved

Lee Valley’s Santa Claus Experience is almost fully booked. Only a few slots remain for families wanting the full festive visit with Santa. Once the dates are gone, they will not reopen.
Book now: leevalleyfarm.co.uk/events/santa-claus-experience/

Voting closes today for the Community Champions awards and the race is extremely close. Residents are encouraged to cast their final votes and help their chosen nominee get over the line. Donations are also welcome to support the purchase of a well-deserved gift for the winners.

Vote now »

For the friend who loves cozy comfort and a touch of nostalgia, the Happy Helpers Pop-Tart Heating Pad is a sweet standout on any holiday gift list. Designed to look just like the iconic Strawberry Frosted Pop-Tart, this microwaveable cutie delivers warm, soothing relief for period cramps, sore muscles, or chilly winter days.

Perfect for your bestie, parent, sibling, or anyone who could use a little extra warmth this season. Equal parts comforting and charming, this Pop-Tart is guaranteed to be the most delightfully unexpected hit of your Secret Santa exchange!

Get the Happy Helpers Pop-Tart here!

Location: Broxbourne Civic Space
Time: Afternoon to early evening
Description: Annual carol-singing showcase featuring choirs from primary schools across the borough. Expect classic Christmas songs, parents filling the hall, and that full “start of the season” energy.
Learn more: https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/events/event/215/festival-of-carols

Location: Lowewood Museum, Hoddesdon
Time: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Price: Free entry
Description: Lowewood Museum invites residents to celebrate the achievements made through National Lottery Heritage Fund support over the past four years. Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies, explore the galleries and exhibitions, and help create a commemorative scroll marking 100 years of Hertfordshire Libraries. A welcoming community event for all ages.
Learn more: https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/events

Location: Rye Park Conservative Club, EN11 0JD
Time: Doors open 7:30 PM
Price: £3.00 for non-members
Description: An evening of live music with Paul Sharp, performing classics with guitar in an intimate club setting. A relaxed night out for locals who enjoy live entertainment.
Learn more: (Venue does not provide a dedicated event link. Use general page or contact directly.)

Location: Waltham Cross
Time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Description: Seasonal Sunday market packed with local traders, festive goods, food stalls, gifts, and Christmas essentials. Ideal for supporting local businesses while ticking off your holiday shopping.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/BroxbourneBC

Location: Pavilions Shopping Centre, Waltham Cross town centre
Time: 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Description: Final day of performances for the Festival of Carols. A chance to support local children and enjoy festive music while shopping.
Learn more: https://www.broxbourne.gov.uk/events/event/215/festival-of-carols

Location: Broxbourne Arts Forum, Green Room Bar, The Spotlight
Time: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Price: Free entry
Description: A community meet-up for anyone who loves the arts. Local artists and craftspeople will showcase their work, with live music from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. Refreshments available from the bar.
Contact: [email protected]

Learn more

Friday

9°C 🌡 6°C | 🌧 Light rain showers and a moderate breeze | ☀ Sunrise 07:49 Sunset 15:52

Saturday

16°C 🌡 9°C | 🌧 Drizzle and a moderate breeze | ☀ Sunrise 07:50 Sunset 15:51

Sunday

14°C 🌡 10°C | 🌧 Light rain and a moderate breeze | ☀ Sunrise 07:52 Sunset 15:51

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Wishing you a fantastic weekend!

Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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