People looking for the right gifts to put under the tree this Christmas will be treated to a musical evening of late night shopping at Mid Canterbury's third annual Buskers Night, presented by the Ashburton Courier on Thursday 3 December.

A number of Ashburton CBD retailers will be open late for the event and the sound of Christmas bargains will be accompanied with the sound of local musicians, dancers and performers throughout the town centre.

Buskers Night is the second event in the Council's month-long Nights Of Lights Christmas Festival. Registrations are still open for performers and anyone interested in putting their talent on show is encouraged to apply by Friday 13 November.

Ashburton Arcade retailers Chicago Joes, The China Shop, Health 2000, Kitchen Kapers, Redmonds Furnishings, Robilliards Showcase Jewellers, Swarovski, Tots to Teens and Unique Boutique will all have their doors open until 6pm.

Flowers & Balloons, Fusion Gallery, Hello Banana, Mode Boutique, Paper Plus and Stepping Out will be open a little longer, closing at 7 pm.

After a busy evening finding the right gifts, shoppers will be able to refuel with a 10 per cent discount on dinner from Kelly's Cafe and Bar, Indian Minar and Somerset Grocer. To take advantage of the offer, simply mention Buskers Night.

Ashburton District Mayor Neil Brown says the Council is proud to be working with local businesses to make shopping local this Christmas a vibrant and festive experience.

"A few of us are guilty of leaving our Christmas shopping to the last minute, but Buskers Night will help make sure you can get in and tick the list off well before the big day.

"Do something special in the lead up to Christmas with a magical night in the town centre. The music, performances and late night shopping will add an extra layer of cheer to the holiday festivities."

Buskers Night, presented by the Ashburton Courier starts at 6 pm in the Ashburton CBD on Thursday 3 December.