IN PICTURES: Despite a rainy start Aberdeen’s Christmas Village is now back

By Lottie Hood

November 17 2022, 7:13 pm

Megan Wright and Philip from the Aberdeen Arts Centre pantomime Cinderella are pictured with Lord Provost David Cameron at the opening. Image: Chris Sumner/ DC Thomson.

It might have got off to a soggy start, but Christmas has officially arrived in Aberdeen.

The Christmas Village opened earlier tonight, with a whole range of fun for families including the ice rink, fairground rides and lots of produce to enjoy.

Despite the miserable weather, people kitted out in waterproofs, ponchos and umbrellas still turned out to enjoy a night of festive fun.

While Broad Street is packed with the usual Christmas treats and offering a “wonderful carnival experience”, the Curated Market is also back in the Quad from this weekend.

A ‘festive pick-me-up’ for all

Despite a difficult past few years and a rainy start, Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said the village is “always a joy” and very much anticipated.

He said: “It’s been very difficult what with Covid which we’re getting through but also the costs. We understand that and we’re trying to find that balance.

“But people will want that cheer, that festive pick-me-up and hopefully as they prioritise they will see this as one to come in and support not only the businesses but come in as a family and enjoy the spectacle that is the Aberdeen Christmas Village.”

Curated at the Quad will open tomorrow, with around 40 local businesses taking a stall in the run-up to Christmas.

Megan Wright and Philip from The Aberdeen Arts centre Pantomime Cinderella are pictured with Lord Provost David Cameron and Adrian Watson the chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired. Image: Chris Sumner/ DC Thomson.

While Aberdeen’s Christmas tree switch-on ceremony has been rescheduled due to today’s forecast, Mr Watson told people not to be put off by the weather.

He added: “It’s something to look forward to for everybody over the coming weeks and I hope we can all in the north-east get behind the Aberdeen Christmas Village.”

Lord Provost David Cameron, who officially opened the village added: “It’s great to see the Aberdeen Market back. The Quad is looking fantastic.

“I think it’s what we need in Aberdeen. It brings people into the city and that has to be good for the other businesses around it’s not just for the Christmas Market.”

Put together by Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeen Inspired and Codona’s Amusement Park, the village is open most days from 12pm until 10pm.

Here are a few of the visitors who braved the rain to visit. Can you spot anyone you know?

All pictures have been taken by Chris Sumner/DC Thomson.