Late night Christmas shoppers will be able to hop on a new train designed to ensure the festive spirit is spread across the whole of Hamilton.

The train, which will run from Uptown to Downtown throughout Friday evenings in the run-up to Christmas, is intended to take people to shopping areas of the city they might otherwise ignore.

Bermuda Chamber of Commerce announced the plan as it unveiled its line-up of events for this year's late-night shopping programme.

Fashion shows organised by shops and a series of performances from bands and musicians will form the bulk of the entertainment from this Friday until December 22.

To organise the schedule, the Chamber has teamed up with Uptown Market Association, which promotes business in the city.

The train will operate a circular route from 6 p.m. each Friday, starting at Bulls Head car park, Dundonald Street, and taking in Court Street, Reid Street, Burnaby Street, Cedar Avenue and Victoria Street.

It is hoped shoppers will like what they see in some of the less traditional shopping streets, such as Court Street, and be encouraged to visit them more often in the future.

Events in Court Street will include a Gospel concert, bike show, car show and Uptown Cultural Expo. Reid Street and Queen Street will feature a tree decorating contest, performances from choirs and other entertainment.

The scheme is part of the Chamber of Commerce's Buy Bermuda campaign, which has the theme "Shop, Explore And Shop Some More".

Commerce executive director Diane Gordon said: "The shopping experience is a wonderful experience in Bermuda. You are telling me there's not enough to do in Bermuda. We are going to open up the city of Hamilton, which is going to allow you to shop, explore and experience shopping.

"This is an ideal opportunity for us to open up our minds and see what else is available.

"This is about supporting the efforts of the retailers — making small retailers really feel good about themselves and wanting to step up and do more. We are talking about your single person who has a business in Hamilton."

Organisers say the project is part of a long-term plan to create a more attractive shopping city.

Elmore Warren, chairman of UptownMarket Association, said: "In three years time, we want to have a wonderland. We are looking forward to continuing to grow. The bridge from Downtown to Uptown is very important. We have to build this bridge."

James Richardson, of Allied Entertainment Services, has lined up a string of acts, including Jordan Star, Lady Tyson and Miss T.

Mr. Richardson said: "We just want people to come out and enjoy the entertainment."

Shops taking part in the fashion show include Dub City Records and Boutique, Upscale Fashions, Zig Zag Too Fashions and Eye Candy.