Christmas Celebrations Begin at Westfield


Rita Ora switches on lights and booking opens for grotto and ice rink

Christmas has officially begun at Westfield with singer-songwriter Rita Ora switching on the lights and booking opening for Santa's Grotto and the indoor ice rink, both coming to the Shepherd's Bush centre on November 20.

More than 10,000 shoppers gathered at to see global star Rita switch on the spectacular Christmas lights under laser displays and fake snow galore.

Introduced on stage in the Atrium by television presenter Rick Edwards, Rita sang three songs including her first UK number one, Black Widow.

Myf Ryan, Westfield's UK and Europe marketing director, says: " Our shoppers were ecstatic to have Rita Ora perform live in the centre to celebrate the launch of Christmas at Westfield.

" The lights switch-on event is a major highlight of our festive calendar and marks the beginning of our exciting Christmas schedule, which this year includes a 4D Santa’s grotto and an ice rink."

Santa's Grotto will be open between November 20 and December 24 and offers kids the chance to meet the man himself, enjoy a new 4D film experience and receive a gift. Westfield says that Santa gets really busy, so recommends booking in advance.

When booking, you will be asked for the age of the children. Westfield says it cannot provide gifts for children over 12 years old.

You will find Santa's Grotto outside Jamie's Italian Restaurant, on the Southern terrace.

The ice rink is also back in Westfield's Atrium for the fifth year and is open from November 20 till January 4. Again, Westfield says it gets very busy so advises booking in advance.

You can find out more and book tickets on Westfield's website.

November 7, 2014