Music, arts and lights replace market – but 12 chalets return
The first details of events to replace the cancelled Bath Christmas Market have been released.
The market was cancelled in July due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Organisers have said that 12 chalets will be placed around the city, just like the first market in 2000.
Bath and North East Somerset Council, Bath Business Improvement District (BID), Visit Bath, Bath Festivals and organisations throughout the region have come together to bring the magic of Christmas to Bath.
Not only will there be the 12 chalets selling locally made gifts and treats, some of the city’s most iconic buildings will come to life with festive illuminations.
There will also be two early bird Christmas shopping days on November 12 and 19, with entertainment around the city centre and promotions available to shoppers organised by Bath BID.
Dedicated “compassionate Christmas shopping days” for people who need more time and quiet when doing their festive shopping, will be held from 10am until midnight on November 10 and 17.
The cultural and festive programme begins on the weekend of November 27 and will run until
December 20. Each weekend will involve different arts organisations running events in the unique buildings and open spaces of the city.
Bath Festivals open the programme in partnership with the Holburne Museum, with a conversation with artist Grayson Perry in the Forum talking about his remarkable career.
Bath Carnival and Artseen will be creating lanterns with community groups and schools, which will animate the city. Lanterns will be attached to rickshaws in a cycle promenade around the city streets.
Open-air stages in the city will have students, local musicians, story-tellers and poets entertaining residents and visitors.
The Forum opens its doors on the final weekend, culminating with Bath Philharmonia performing The Snowman, accompanying Raymond Briggs’ animated masterpiece for a moment of charm and beauty in the run-up to the holiday season.
The full programme of events will be announced in the coming weeks.
Organisers have said that all events will be planned in line with government guidelines on the pandemic.
All visitors are asked to adhere to the latest guidance when travelling, including the use of face coverings and social spacing, and are reminded to ensure that reservations are made in advance for travel and specific events to avoid disappointment.