Aberdeen Transformed Into Wonderland

25 November 2015

The Granite City's transformation into a winter wonderland is complete following the official launch of the Aberdeen Christmas Village.

The spectacular festive attraction has been spearheaded by Aberdeen Inspired in partnership with Aberdeen City Council and Codona's.

The picturesque open-air ice-rink takes pride of place in the village, along with a variety of funfair rides. Visitors will also be able to indulge in Christmas shopping at the German style market, and enjoy sampling the festive food and drink stands.

Aberdeen's most famous sporting son was drafted in to mark the official opening of the village today (Thursday November 26) and help swing festivities into action. Paul Lawrie travels the world on the professional golf circuit and is determined to play a part in putting his home city on the map.

He said: "I have been fortunate enough to travel a lot during my career and experienced a variety of global attractions. It is fantastic to see something festive on this scale being brought to the Granite City by Aberdeen Inspired and their partners.

"Earlier this year I brought my European Tour event to Aberdeen and we had a great response from participants and spectators who commented on the warmth of their welcome and beauty of the surroundings. I am sure that the Aberdeen Christmas Village will be a great draw for locals and visitors alike and bring a fantastic atmosphere to the city."

Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: "This is the first year of the Christmas Village which is a very exciting new addition to our line-up of Winter Festival events.

"I'm sure lots of people from the city, the surrounding area and from further away will come to Aberdeen and experience the fantastic festive atmosphere in the Christmas Village and the city centre. We look forward to welcoming folk to the Village, whether it's for the thrill of the rides or gliding around the ice rink, along with all the other attractions on offer."

Gary Craig, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: "We are delighted to be marking the official launch of the Aberdeen Christmas Village today. Aberdeen Inspired has worked hard alongside the council and Codona's to bring the biggest and best ever festive experience to the city this year.

"It will offer something unique and fun for everyone to enjoy as they get into the Christmas spirit. We aim to increase footfall as part of our remit and are sure that the wonderful festivities in the heart of the city will draw the crowds in. This will have a great benefit to local businesses, restaurants and shops, as people also utilise nearby facilities.

"We hope everyone enjoys the entertainment on offer, as well as the fantastic festive food and drink. The German Market will also help tick off some off that Christmas present list I am sure. It is fantastic to now have an enhanced Yuletide offering in the heart of Aberdeen and this is something we are proud of and determined to build on each year."

Alfred Codona, director of Aberdeen-based family amusement firm Codona's, said: "We are pleased to be playing a part in the Aberdeen Christmas Village, which we are sure will be a great hit with the public.

"Whether you are looking for a bit of a thrill or something for all the family, we have chosen rides that will appeal to all. At Codona's we take a lot of pride in providing fun and excitement for visitors to our attractions and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone along to Union Terrace this weekend and in coming weeks."

Breakneck Comedy has organised the line-up for the entertainment marquee which features a wide range of talented bands, singers, choirs and comedians. Iron Broo, Dirty Shoes, The Lorelai, Best Girl Athlete, Jordon Young and Gary Meikle among many others will be on hand to entertain the crowds.

Visitors can also brave the Bomber, a thrill ride which reaches a maximum force of 3.6gs before throwing riders forward at speeds of up to 90mph. If that is a bit much a Miami family ride and festive themed cups and saucers and carousel are also in situ.

The Aberdeen Christmas Village is part of the Winter Festival, which is being organised by Aberdeen City Council. Union Terrace is closed until January 8 to accommodate the village, with a number of traffic measures in place for the duration. Please ensure you plan ahead and for more information visit the Christmas Village website.

Members of the public are encouraged to use #AbdnXmas when having fun at the Christmas Village. Please note that we may use tagged photographs for future publicity purposes