The Queen Victoria Inn in Priddy is lighting up for Christmas once again, transforming into one of the most festive sights in Somerset. With over 55,000 lights and eye-catching decorations, this annual tradition not only brings joy to visitors but also raises vital funds for Children's Hospice South West (CHSW). Here's everything you need to know about this year's display and the festive activities planned.

When is the big switch-on?

The Christmas lights at the Queen Victoria Inn will be switched on this Friday, 6 December, at 6 pm. The event kicks off with live music from Ryan Haynes from 5:30 pm to 8 pm, and food will be available to keep visitors warm, along with a cosy fire.

What can you expect from the display?

This year's display includes:

• Over 55,000 lights illuminating the historic pub.
• A 16ft wine bottle tree, created from 1,103 wine bottles collected from the pub over the past year.
• A 26ft snowman adorned with 2,500 wine bottles, making for a truly unique festive centrepiece.
• A brand-new festive motif, which will be unveiled during the big switch-on.

The pub, once voted among the top 10 Christmas displays in the world, has gained a reputation for its creative and extravagant decorations. Previous displays have included a Gingerbread House and an illuminated Polar Express train.

Why visit?

The Queen Victoria Inn's festive lights attract thousands of visitors from across the UK each year. The display is not only a visual treat but also a way to support a good cause. Donations can be made at the pub via collection buckets, tins, or QR codes, with all proceeds going to CHSW.

Santa Run and other events

The annual Santa Run returns on 15 December, offering 5-mile and 10-mile courses around the Mendips. Runners will set off at 11 am from the pub, returning to finish their festive challenge at the Queen Vic. Entry is £10, and details can be found on the pub's Facebook page.

The lights will be switched on each evening between 4 pm and 9 pm throughout December, with the display concluding on New Year's Eve.

How does it support charity?

Mark Walton and his wife Debs, who run the Queen Victoria Inn, have raised over £25,000 for CHSW through their Christmas displays and events over the years. This year, they hope to exceed that amount with the help of visitors' generosity.

Mark said, "When the lights are switched on at the Queen Vic, it's the claxon that Christmas has begun in Priddy. Christmas is all about children, and when you see what incredible work CHSW does with young people and their families, it spurs us all on to make the display bigger and better each year."

How to get involved

Visitors can enjoy the lights and festive atmosphere while supporting a worthy cause. Entry to the Santa Run can be booked online, and donations can be made at the pub or via QR code during your visit.

Don't miss out!

Mark your calendar for the big switch-on this Friday, 6 December, at 6 pm, and join the festivities at the Queen Victoria Inn in Priddy. It's a magical way to start the holiday season and make a difference for Children's Hospice South West.