The future of the north-east’s biggest winter festival has been secured for the next three years.
Aberdeen Inspired has entered into a deal with both the city council and amusement park firm Codonas to manage the Aberdeen Christmas Village until 2018 following last year’s hugely successful event.
The festive fun will kick-off at the end of the month, with the ice rink making a return to the pocket park in front of HM Theatre.
There will also be double the number of market stalls, as well as fair rides, food vendors and an entertainment marquee.
Last night Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said he was now looking forward to delivering a “fantastic Christmas experience” for the north-east.
“Work has now begun on the build and we can’t wait to see the festive heart of the city centre start to take shape,” he said.
“Part of Aberdeen Inspired’s remit is to increase footfall within the city centre and the Aberdeen Christmas Village will help towards that, with the hopeful knock-on effect of bringing in benefits to local shops, restaurants and businesses.
“To achieve this aim, we need to support of the public and visitors to Aberdeen, so I would urge everyone to enjoy what is being offered on their doorstep and support their city centre.”
Union Terrace will be closed from the evening of November 18 to January 15, while the slip road between HM Theatre and Union Terrace closed on Saturday to allow construction of the open air ice rink to begin.
Deputy council leader Marie Boulton said: “The Christmas Village was a major attraction last year and will be a popular part of the Winter Festival again.
“With work beginning on construction, we look forward to the opening of the village and are pleased to be working with our partners to deliver what is a fantastic addition to Aberdeen’s festive offering.”
Alfred Codona, director of Codonass, added: “We take great pride in ensuring fun and excitement for visitors to our attractions and we are looking forward to revealing more about our plans for the village.
“This three-year deal will allow us to keep building on the event each year and we are looking forward to working with
Aberdeen Inspired and other partners to bring together a festive experience on Union Terrace.”
The Christmas Village will be open from November 25 to January 8.
