04 Nov 2024
It’s undoubtedly the start of St Albans’ festive season, and this year’s Christmas Cracker street festival is taking place from noon until 6pm on Sunday November 17.
Thousands of people are expected to attend the event, which features live music, fairground rides, a Santa’s grotto, street entertainers and around 100 market stalls selling hot food, drinks and seasonal gifts.
Festive decorations and installations will be illuminated throughout the event and there will also guest appearances from some of this year’s Alban Arena pantomime, Cinderella.
The Christmas Cracker is organised by SADC, sponsored by St Albans City Centre BID and part-funded by the Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund.
Cllr Anthony Rowlands, lead for events, said: “I am thrilled at the prospect of another St Albans Christmas Cracker.
“This is a fantastic way to get the district’s festive season underway and always attracts thousands of people to the city centre.
“I urge our residents not to miss out on the fun as there is great entertainment, much of it free, for people of all ages.
“The event also provides a boost to the local economy by bringing many extra visitors to the city centre where they will use our shops, pubs, cafés and restaurants as well as the market stalls.”
Vivien Cannon, manager of St Albans city centre BID, added: “Everything has been laid on for the whole community to come along and help launch the start of this wonderful Christmas season.
“Our city centre businesses invest in the city through sponsorship of the event. Everyone wants to make sure visitors enjoy browsing around the stalls and enjoy the festive entertainments. Most of all, our businesses send Christmas greetings and the message to continue to shop locally this Christmas.”
