FAMILIES are flocking to Christmas tree festivals hosted by churches across south-east Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

They're kicking off Advent by seeing illuminated trees that have been beautifully decorated by local schools, charities, businesses and community groups.

Many of the festivals are taking place on the weekend of December 5-7, which means the festive arrangements, live music, mulled wine and mince pies are giving visitors their first taste of Christmas.

Among them is the Christmas tree festival at St Cuthbert's Church, Copnor, which saw a selection of illuminated trees scattered across the nave for the 15th year in a row. They were decorated by local children's groups, charities and community groups, including the GP surgery and toddler group based in the church building. 

Claire Cleaver had brought her own children - Elsie, aged 7, and Bertie, aged 4 - to see the tree decorated by her group, Pineapple Tots Childcare, based in Kirby Road. It's the fifth year she's been involved.

"I bring the children from Pineapple Tots here, and my own children, each year," she said. "It's a lovely way to begin the whole Advent and Christmas period, and we love the chutneys, the raffles, the home-made cakes, and everything else. It's great that the children know the routine, and can go off and do their crafts. And there is a real community spirit around the event as well."

The 2025 festival is raising money for Second Chance, a charity working with local children who may need special help. It includes live music from the Pompey Pluckers, St Aidan's Choir, the Academy Voice Choir and more. And Santa is also visiting each day. It's open on Saturday from 11am-5pm and on Sunday from 1.30pm-4.30pm. Details here.