A ‘LIVING’ advent calendar ‘packed with performances’ is returning to Christchurch this Christmas.

Christchurch Living Advent Calendar (CLAC) will be running in the town between December 1 and 24.

Organised by Christchurch Rotary Club and other volunteers, CLAC is a free-to-attend event which has been running in Christchurch throughout December for the past two years.

It sees a performance by a Dorset artist or group every evening – to mark each ‘door’ of the calendar being opened.

Performances may include choirs, singers, bands, dance troupes, or theatre, and they take place at a different location every evening.

The venues and supported charities have been advertised in advance, but the identity of the performer is not revealed until the day of the event, just as in a children’s advent calendar.

Some of the venues announced for the 2023 calendar include The Priory Church, The Regent Centre, Chicken and Blues, The Captains Club Hotel, and The Thomas Tripp.

All funding for the event is provided by sponsorship from local businesses, and the entertainment and venues are provided free of charge.

Collections will be made throughout the event, and raffle tickets sold, with the proceeds going directly to charities in the area.

To date, CLAC has helped to raise more than £41,000.

The evening performances have previously lasted for only 30 minutes, but due to popular demand, they will be extended to one hour this year.

They are due to run between 6pm and 7pm daily, with Christmas Eve’s performance taking place between 2pm and 3pm.

The idea for a Living Advent Calendar originated in Stockholm, with the first being held in 2005.

Today, there are Living Advent Calendars in many towns in Sweden and other countries, with the first in UK being held in Henley on Thames in 2011.

The event is known for showcasing local talents, charities, and businesses, whilst raising significant sums for charity.

For more information, and for details of venues, charities, and sponsors visit christchurchlivingadventcalendar.org.uk