Despite rumours to the contrary, Coventry is heading for one of the most exciting Christmases ever.
Following on from the Christmas Cracker package, Coventry’s International Christmas Market opens on 1 December. That’s when the city centre is turned into a virtual culinary United Nations, with food and merchandise from all over the planet for sale, not forgetting those tempting free samples.
It’s a Christmas that promises a Tunisian bazaar with belly dancers and the ambient buzz of a North African street market. The highlight of the experience will be a large traditional wooden chalet selling Bavarian beer and gluwein, as well as a bratwurst sausage house, imported especially for the event.
Cllr Bigham, Cabinet Member for City Development, said: "With everything that is happening in Coventry Market and the surrounding area, there's sure to be something for everyone. I shall be looking for some different presents this year, and with the International Market happening every day right up to Christmas Eve, I'll have plenty of choice."
Other stalls represent, France, Spain, Greece, Lebanon, Iran, India, Morocco, Egypt plus many more, all carefully selected to enhance the city's retail offer this year. There is also an opportunity to win an outstanding prize.
Other highlights to look out for are:
- 17 December - Mother Christmas makes a rare appearance at the spectacular Coventry Market Grotto.
- 18 December - Coventry Market goes festive to the max when Father Christmas arrives and stays until Christmas Eve.The Grotto is officially opened by Councillor Linda Bighamand Touch FM’s Brody Swain. Children who visit Santa will be given a free present, and the adults a free mince pie. There’s also a chance to buy that precious photo with Santa.
- Also on the same day Coventry legend Hazel O’Connor will be singing, and selling her charity CD on behalf of Myton Hospice.
- Not to be missed is the restyled Merry-Glow-Round (with over 2000 lights) adding even more magic to the spectacular Grotto area.
The festivities on the day also include a Choir, Air Swimmers, Face Painting, Super Prize Draw, Hillz FM, The BBC and fund raising for the Myton Hospice and Harry Moseley charities.