Christmas market will not return to Southampton
Organisers have only just told the city council
The leader of Southampton City Council says she's 'hugely disappointed' the Christmas market and flying Santa won't be returning this year.
Satvir Kaur says they've only just been told by organisers they're not running the annual event, describing the move as 'frustrating and unexpected'.
In a statement, Southampton City Council said: "It is with great disappointment that we have to announce that WELA Märkte has indicated its intention not to deliver the Southampton Christmas market or Southampton’s unique flying Santa experience.
"The council was informed of this decision a few days ago.
"The council is considering its options in respect of WELA Märkte’s withdrawal including alternative activities and attractions that would complement the existing Christmas programme in the city.
"Southampton will still have its traditional festive Christmas lights – using energy-saving light bulbs. A fabulous free switch-on event will be organised by Visit Southampton for 17 November."
Visit Southampton events include:
• Countdown to Christmas – city centre – 17 November, 5-7pm
• The Great Elf Investigation – Free family walking trail, 25 November – 3 January
And there are shows and performances by cultural partners with many discounted tickets to ensure that families can enjoy the show together:
• Down The Rabbit Hole – MAST Mayflower Studies – 9 – 24 December
• Goldilocks and The Three Bears – Mayflower Theatre – 10 – 31 December
• Alice: A Musical Adventure in Wonderland – MAST Mayflower Studios - 17 - 31 December
• Snow White Adult Panto – The Stage Door – 23 November – 23 December
• Merry F-ing Christmas – MAST Mayflower Studios – 2 December
We're told the Christmas shopping in Southampton will be as spectacular as ever and Westquay will also have its popular ice rink for that really traditional Christmas feel.
The Countdown to Christmas event is set to take place on Thursday 17 November from 5 to 7pm with roaming street theatre and entertainment.
Leader of the Council, Councillor Satvir Kaur said:
“We are of course hugely disappointed that WELA Märkte has indicated that they will not deliver a Christmas Market in Southampton this year. We have been working closely with them on this year’s event since February, so the timing of this announcement is particularly frustrating and unexpected.
Despite the short notice, we are now working very closely at speed, with city partners to see what alternatives could be put in place to ensure that Southampton continues to have an exciting Christmas offer this year for local residents, visitors and businesses.
"I’m pleased the ice rink, a family favourite, is back this year for example, alongside other events and activities. If you and your business want to be involved with this year’s Christmas in Southampton, please get in touch.”