Aberdeen's Christmas Village opens
A Christmas village has popped up in the centre of Aberdeen. It's taken over Union Terrace for the festive period, and features a funfair, an ice rink and a German market.
The Granite City’s transformation into a winter wonderland is complete following the official launch of the Aberdeen Christmas Village.
The spectacular festive attraction has been spearheaded by Aberdeen Inspired in partnership with Aberdeen City Council and Codona’s.
The picturesque open-air ice-rink takes pride of place in the village, along with a variety of funfair rides.
Visitors will also be able to indulge in Christmas shopping at the German style market, and enjoy sampling the festive food and drink stands.
Aberdeen’s most famous sporting son was drafted in to mark the official opening of the village and help swing festivities into action.
Paul Lawrie travels the world on the professional golf circuit and is determined to play a part in putting his home city on the map.
He said: “I have been fortunate enough to travel a lot during my career and experienced a variety of global attractions. It is fantastic to see something festive on this scale being brought to the Granite City by Aberdeen Inspired and their partners.
“Earlier this year I brought my European Tour event to Aberdeen and we had a great response from participants and spectators who commented on the warmth of the welcome and beauty of the surroundings. I am sure that the Aberdeen Christmas Village will be a great draw for locals and visitors alike and bring a fantastic atmosphere to the city.”
Gary Craig, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: “We are delighted to be marking the official launch of the Aberdeen Christmas Village today. Aberdeen Inspired has worked hard alongside the council and Codona’s to bring the biggest and best ever festive experience to the city this year.
“It will offer something unique and fun for everyone to enjoy as they get into the Christmas spirit. We aim to increase footfall as part of our remit and are sure that the wonderful festivities in the heart of the city will draw the crowds in. This will have a great benefit to local businesses, restaurants and shops, as people also utilise nearby facilities.
“We hope everyone enjoys the entertainment on offer, as well as the fantastic festive food and drink. The German Market will also help tick off some off that Christmas present list I am sure. It is fantastic to now have an enhanced Yuletide offering in the heart of Aberdeen and this is something we are proud of and determined to build on each year.”
Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “This is the first year of the Christmas Village which is a very exciting new addition to our line-up of Winter Festival events.
“I’m sure lots of people from the city, the surrounding area and from further away will come to Aberdeen and experience the fantastic festive atmosphere in the Christmas Village and the city centre. We look forward to welcoming folk to the Village, whether it’s for the thrill of the rides or gliding around the ice rink, along with all the other attractions on offer.”
Alfred Codona, director of Aberdeen-based family amusement firm Codona’s, said: “We are pleased to be playing a part in the Aberdeen Christmas Village, which we are sure will be a great hit with the public.
“Whether you are looking for a bit of a thrill or something for all the family, we have chosen rides that will appeal to all. At Codona’s we take a lot of pride in providing fun and excitement for visitors to our attractions and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone along to Union Terrace this weekend and in coming weeks.”