Plans for a winter festival in the heart of Aberdeen at Christmas were unveiled by city council chiefs yesterday.
A Yuletide-themed “village” is to be set-up along Union Terrace, including an ice rink, entertainment marquee, German market stalls and several fairground rides.
The skating arena, which was located in Union Terrace Gardens last year and the Castlegate in 2013, will be based at the grassed area in front of His Majesty’s Theatre.
City council Leader Jenny Laing said: “We have a very exciting programme of events and the Christmas Village is a fantastic new addition to this season’s line-up.
“The winter festival has got bigger and better this year and we listened to what people said they wanted during the masterplan consultations – more big events which help create a fantastic buzz about the city.
“There will be something for people of all ages looking to have a bit of festive fun and we look forward to welcoming people from the city, the wider area, and from abroad to our beautiful city.”
Events will also be held to switch the Christmas tree lights on, the Trinity Centre reindeer parade, a Nativity scene, and a carol concert.
Further announcements are due to be made in coming weeks, including plans for a bonfire night fireworks display and this year’s Hogmanay celebrations.
Gary Craig, chief executive of the Aberdeen Inspired business group, said the festive plans aimed to help it meet its goal of encouraging people into the city centre.
“We want to get people excited about being in the city at such a special time of the year and build on the attractions we have put on in previous years,” he said.
“We were very keen to make this Christmas special and what we have created will be new and very different for Aberdeen – from the perspective of our levy players, the months leading up to Christmas are among the most important of the year and we want to support them in maximising the potential of this time.
The ice rink and the fairground rides, which will be provided and staffed by and amusement specialist Codona’s, will be located on Union Terrace from the end of November to early January.
Alfred Codona, a director of Aberdeen-based family amusement firm Codona’s, said: “We’re delighted to be playing our part in making Christmas magical for those visiting the city centre this year, the festive village promises to be a fantastic attraction.”