Christmas is a time for celebrating and parties – and this year three North Herts artists are donating their time free of charge to help bring the festive spirit to Hitchin.

The Comet: Stevenage artist Dallenger. Picture: DallengerStevenage artist Dallenger. Picture: Dallenger (Image: Archant)

Cara Beard, Dallenger and Beth Hedges will be performing in Hitchin’s Alternative Christmas Carols at Hitchin Town Hall this Sunday evening.

Matt Summerfield from the Hitchin Christian Centre, who is joint-hosting the event, said: “It’s great to see so many local people donating time and energy to this event.

“We’re hoping to bring together people from across our community to celebrate Christmas and have a fantastic evening.”

Cara said: “I’m really excited to be part of this event – Hitchin is a great town and I’ve had some great times gigging here regularly over the years.

The Comet: Unsigned artist Beth Hedges. Picture: Beth HedgesUnsigned artist Beth Hedges. Picture: Beth Hedges (Image: Archant)

“This will be a great evening to kick off the festive season, and I’m really looking forward to playing my renditions of two of my favourite Christmas-themed songs!”

The evening offers the artists the chance to get their music out to a wider audience, and is intended as an alternative festive option to the traditional carol services.

There will be a pay bar and singalong carols, and photographers Blossom and Stan will be there with a free photo booth.

To find out more about the evening, see hitchinchristmas.org.