Christmas light switch-on at Nag's Head

A touch of North Pole magic will come to Islington as the Nag’s Head town centre Christmas extravaganza brings free festive fun to residents and shoppers.

Real reindeer – taking a break before their Christmas duties – will replace the usual traffic as part of Holloway Road is closed for the event between 11.30am and 5.30pm on Sunday, December 4.

More than 6,000 people came to last year’s extravaganza and organisers of this year’s event, the third of its kind at Nag’s Head, are again preparing for big crowds.

Cllr Catherine West, leader of Islington Council, who will be at the event, said: “This is a chance for people to get into the Christmas spirit in Nag’s Head.

“This is an amazing opportunity for residents and visitors alike, and our Nag’s Head town centre manager and local businesses have done a fantastic job.

“Whether you want to meet a real-life reindeer or listen to some great free music, there’s something for everyone at the Nag’s Head Christmas Extravaganza.”

Joyce Pollaya, Nag’s Head town centre manager, said: “Our Christmas event has got bigger and bigger every year. This is the third year that Transport for London has allowed us to close part of Holloway Road so we have a large enough space to hold the event. It’s a great feel-good family event for the local community.

“It’s also about bringing people back into the area and reminding them of the great variety of businesses we have.

“A huge amount of work and effort has gone into this event and I thank all those who have helped bring the Christmas spirit to the Nag’s Head.”

Holloway Road will be shut northbound between Camden Road and Parkhurst Road during the event.

Highlights include:

Chance for children to meet Santa’s reindeer

Six hours of live music and entertainment from a specially-built Christmas stage

Street performers

Traditional Christmas craft and food market with 16 stalls offering a huge range of gifts and goodies

Funfair thrills including a ghost house, child-friendly rides and fairground games of skill

Free mulled wine and minced pies during the afternoon

Free children’s activities including face-painting and story-telling in City and Islington College’s Marlborough building

Hot food for sale including a hog roast

Climbing wall