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WINTER IN ST ALBANS – IT’S A CRACKER!

The historic and cultural city of St Albans, Hertfordshire, is simply magical in winter and is a must-visit destination for Christmas shopping, fantastic entertainment and delicious food and drink- all guaranteed to start your winter off with a bang and get you in the ‘Christmassy mood’.

 

So, wrap up warm and enjoy the buzz of St Albans this festive season, here’s what’s on…

 

Christmas Tree Lights – Watch the official switch-on of the Christmas tree lights in Christopher Place where you’ll also find luxury fashion brands, specialist retailers and plenty of food and drink establishments- perfect for a spot of Christmas retail therapy.

Saturday 20th November, Christopher Place 

 

St Albans Christmas Cracker – The festive season begins with the spectacular Christmas Cracker event. It’s the perfect time to kickstart your Christmas shopping and enjoy fun for all the family at the Christmas Street Festival with family entertainment, funfair rides, live music and festive market stalls. This fantastic event is the star on top of the tree this Christmas and you’ll be sure to find delightful gifts for friends and loved ones.

Sunday 21st November, Central St Albans, 12-6pm

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Winterscapes – Wonder at the vibrant and beautiful artworks created by local St Albans artists at this outside pop-up public art exhibition. The community arts initiative with Collective Gallery aims to enhance the city centre and make art inclusive for all, giving people joy in the most unexpected of places.

November & December, City Centre, Parklets, Museum Railings

 

Nutcracker Trail – Go nuts for this fun family Christmas trail! Try to find all the nutcrackers hidden around St Albans town and the wider district. Free trail maps available from the town centre.

21st November until Christmas Day

 

Christmas Installations – Incredible Christmas lights and animation installations dotted across St Albans town centre will bring fun and joy to all folk across the festive period- and provide the perfect opportunity for a fabulous Instagram picture too!  

Central St Albans 

Festive Dining & Cosy Pubs – St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation with food and drink and its modern-day foodie scene, with a host of special festive events, makes it the go-to for Christmas. From fine dining celebrations for large parties to cosy intimate get-togethers around the pub fire, the eateries and pubs in town will provide the most memorable Christmas fare.

November & December, St Albans  

 

Independent Shopping – St Albans is a spectacular shopping destination all year round but at Christmas, the quaint streets and medieval buildings housing independent shops really come alive. From charming boutiques and quirky interior shops to artisan jewellers and health and beauty independents, all lit up with beautiful Christmas lights, you’ll enjoy spending hours browsing. And there’s plenty of well-known retailers too for those on your list who like well-known brands. 

 

 

Legendary Markets – St Albans is renowned for its markets. From the historic and regular Charter Market to its vibrant pop-ups including; Enjoy Eco, Young Traders, Inside Out, Real Street Food Nights, Caravanserai, Farmers, World and Vintage Markets, all offering an eclectic mix of fresh produce, diverse artisan goods and world foods. A truly magical and vibrant place to be at Christmas with special produce and festive gifts on offer, you can shop for everything you could possibly want!

Various dates across November & December, St Albans Town Centre

 

Manager of St Albans BID, Denise Parsons says:

“St Albans is the perfect destination for fun and entertainment this winter and to kickstart your Christmas shopping. We have an eclectic mix of independent shops, big-name retail outlets and of course, our famous Charter Markets all alongside our many pubs and eateries.

 

“The Christmas Cracker event is a fantastic showcase of what St Albans has to offer and we are delighted to welcome people to eat, drink, shop and enjoy the vibrancy of our wonderful city.”

 

Just 20 miles and 20 minutes by train from London St Pancras International and excellent road connections, St Albans is easily accessible, making it the perfect day or staycation destination this winter.

 

Where to stay?

Accommodation in the city centre ranges from small and intimate bed and breakfasts to large hotels including the stunning country style Manor hotel, St Michaels Manor, the luxurious Sopwell House and the Victorian Grade II listed Torrington Hall.

 

For further details, visit EnjoyStAlbans.com

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