Crowds gathered and a truly magical festive
feeling dawned over York last Friday (23rd), as Yorkshire’s Olympic heroes Lizzie Armitstead, Ed Clancy and Luke Campbell launched York’s Winter Wonderland at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. Over 15,000 shoppers came to the event, which saw the medallists flick the switch for the thousands of twinkling Christmas lights at the venue – heralding a enchanting start to the festive period.
Centred around a giant 30ft Christmas tree, the wonderland consists of a 900sqm real ice-rink and an impressive illuminated reindeer forest; alongside traditional fair rides and 10 beautifully styled traditional log cabin stalls; offering everything from handmade gifts to delicious food, as well as a magnificent Santa’s Grotto (although, sadly, this looks only to be for children). Open until the 6th of January, York’s 3rd Winter Wonderland has something for everybody. Although, prices range from £8.75 for children, to £9.75 for adults (with special discounts for groups of 20 or more) for 1 hour, making it a fairly expensive outing.
However, the event, described by the Olympians as “fantastic” and having crowds “almost as loud as Stratford”, is only the beginning for York’s festive season. From the 8th to the 23rd of December, York’s traditional Christmas Fayre will be hitting the city centre. Selling all things festive, the market is perfect for both buying gifts for family and friends and also simply soaking up a wonderfully wintery atmosphere.
Alternatively, if you’ve completed all your shopping or just fancy a break from all the hustle and bustle, then the Festival of Angels (15th -16th December), is bound to get you in the holiday spirit. Including ice sculptures, unique outdoor entertainment and the promise of a “sprinkling of snow”, this event of yuletide York is hard to resist AND completely free!
As the home of the Early Music Centre, York is also the place to be should you fancy some magical music to warm you up this winter. Starting on the 1st of December with a rare full performance of the Bach Christmas Oratorio and continuing throughout the month (with many performances based in the University’s very own Sir Jack Lyons concert hall), the festival is sure to provide a cultural plethora of traditional treats in the lead up to Christmas.
Or, if the winter chill just gets too much and you want to avoid the trek into town and experience some festive fun right on your doorstep, why not check out RAG’s very own Winter Wonderland? On the 1st December, The Courtyard and D/L/028 will be transformed into a glittering grotto of seasonal delights; playing all our favourite Christmas movies and hosting both a market and a variety of festive performances, including a pantomime…
York is truly lighting up with holiday spirit, so whether you want shopping, music or just a touch of the traditional in the lead up to Christmas, there is something to suit everybody. The weather outside may be frightful (and leaving the house a terrifying prospect), but with so much on offer, you’re bound to have yourself a merry little (build up to) Christmas.
For directions to McArthurGlen and information about booking tickets and upcoming events, visit: www.yorkdesigneroutlet.com
where was my invite to the winter wonderland?