THE Arc has announced a programme of events to get visitors into the festive spirit this December.

The starts with Keepers, a free exhibition which delves into the essence of preservation. This exhibition runs from Thursday, November 16 to Sunday, January 21, and offers a range of artistic perspectives.

Shoes Inside Out will launch at the Arc on Friday, November 24. This free exhibition examines footwear as art, and invites attendees to explore the intersection of fashion, design, and self-expression through shoes.

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Historical shoes and boots from the Hampshire Cultural Trust’s collection will be on display for visitors to examine, with a selection having been specifically X-rayed to see the designs and workings in a new light.

Visitors are encouraged to wear their favourite shoes to the exhibition, snap a photo using the polaroid camera and add it to a ‘Shoe’ Wall in The Gallery, sharing the story behind their favourite pair of shoes. This collection of personal stories will build and remain on display for the duration of the exhibition.

The Arc is also welcoming the interactive show Noisy Little Troll from Wednesday, December 20 to Saturday, December 23. Aimed at children aged from 3 to 8, it will aim to engage young minds and ignite imaginations through storytelling and activities.

Tickets cost £9 per person or £32 for a family ticket.

A free Acoustic Café performance will be held on Friday, December 1, featuring musicians Alex Roberts, Charles Bueller and Ribble. This will be followed on Thursday, December 14 by a performance by Winter Union, featuring a fresh arrangement of traditional carols and seasonal classics from both sides of the Atlantic. Tickets for this concert cost £18 if purchased in advance and £20 on the door.

The Hundred Watt Club will be holding a cabaret event on Saturday, December 2. Featuring a showcase of diverse talent, the event should be an exciting night out. Tickets cost £18, or £16 concession. Meanwhile, Barnstormers Comedy will return on Friday, December 15 with a line-up of comedians hoping to fight the winter blues by tickling the audience’s funny bones.

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Tickets for Barnstormers Comedy cost £12.50 if purchased in advance and £14 on the door. Attendees will be able to enjoy a Christmas curry alongside the performance with a combined ticket for £25.

A Festive Makers Market will be at The Arc on Saturday, December 9. Visitors will be able to explore handmade creations, support local artisans and find the perfect holiday gifts in a market atmosphere.

More information about The Arc and a full programme of events can be found on its website.