A POPULAR seasonal attraction returns to Thurrock this weekend, opening its doors to the public on Saturday (14 November).

The Christmas Destination on the Quay at Lakeside features a Christmas wheel, ice skating, Christmas-themed games, rides, festive food and drinks and it will run until Sunday 3 January.

Entry is free, with separate charges for ice skating, rides, games, food and drinks. Ride tokens cost £1.20 each or ten for £10, with rides priced at three to five tokens each.

Families and friends can take a spin on the Christmas wheel, enjoy the fairground rides and games, explore the festive food stalls and relax in the new indoor bar.

Local school choirs will also bring Christmas music to the attraction through the Sing and Skate programme.

Opening the season at a private gala on Friday will be the choir from Stanford-le-Hope's Arthur Bugler school, adding to a long list of its achievements.

The 45 strong choir has been performing in the local community for years and choir leader Victoria Cooper says: "Singing is practically in our school's DNA, and we are beyond proud of every single child who has ever joined us!

"Whether they are lighting up local assemblies or taking over massive stages at Young Voices, our choir brings unmatched energy to everything they do.

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"They've rocked school events, tackled charity competitions, and delivered full-throttle Christmas cheer every single holiday season.

"Leading the choir is an absolute privilege. The children are the heart and soul of our school community, and seeing them shine fills us with immense pride. No matter the stage or the challenge, they pour their whole hearts into every single song, leaving a trail of pure joy wherever they sing. It is an utter delight to guide them through so many wonderful moments together, and I can't wait to see the magic they create next."

The choir's energy impressed Destination event organiser Paris when she first saw them at Lakeside three years ago and from Destination Lakeside shared:

"I first heard the children sing at Lakeside three years ago and was so blown away that I invited them to perform at The Destination. They have inspired us to invite more local schools and start our 'Sing and Skate' initiative where local schools will perform at The Destination in the run up to Christmas.

There's plenty to do for all ages at The Destination.

For bookings and information about The Destination visit thedestinationatlakeside.com