One of the region’s favourite festive events returns to Northumberland Square in North Shields next weekend.
The town’s Victorian Christmas Market is celebrating its 17th year on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 December, with over 100 stalls selling all manner of food, crafts, gifts and more.
Thousands of shoppers are expected to turn out over the weekend to buy their traditional favourites and enjoy the festivities.
A bandstand will feature local choirs and school children from across the borough singing Christmas carols.
Other entertainment over the weekend will include Morris dancing, a Punch and Judy show and a small fairground for children. There will be birds of prey and alpacas, too.
Cllr Eddie Darke, cabinet member for Leisure, Culture and Tourism, said: “Stalls sold out in record time this year so we know the traders are all really keen to come and sell their products at what is surely one of the best Christmas markets in the UK.”
“Our Winter Festival is now well underway and the market is another great way to enjoy the festive season and to grab some seasonal produce to enjoy with family and friends over the holidays.”
The market opens at 10am on Saturday morning, with the traditional carol service led by local churches and trades until 5pm. On Sunday the market is open from 10am until 4pm.
North Shields Customer First Centre will be open offering a range of festive activities, while the Beacon Shopping Centre will be offering free car parking as well as entertainment.
The market is organised each year by a partnership including North Tyneside Council, North Shields Chamber of Trade, Beacon Shopping Centre, the YMCA, local churches and schools.
The event is supported by Kier North Tyneside and Tyne and Wear Metro.
Timings and events are subject to change or cancellation in the event of severe weather.
For further information, call (0191) 643 7409, email events@northtyneside.gov.uk or visit www.victorianmarket.co.uk.
