Aberdeen’s Christmas Village is set to return to the city later this year following positive feedback on last year’s event.
Councillors from the Finance and Resources Committee yesterday agreed an update on the event after an independent evaluation of the Christmas Village was undertaken by Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce.
Committee Convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “Aberdeen’s Christmas Village continues to be hugely popular with local residents, and visitors to the city, over the festive period.
“Aberdeen City Council, working in partnership with Aberdeen Inspired, will continue to build on the successes of previous years as we move towards the 2025 festive period.”
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “The feedback from last year’s Christmas Village is key as we look towards the future and continue to create a fun and engaging attraction that can be enjoyed by all ages.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in the Christmas Village for their continued hard work and support in making this a fantastic event.”
The Evaluation found that:
- 98% of visitors thought the event should be repeated in the future;
- 91% rated the market as ‘good’ or ‘excellent’;
- 87% from outside Aberdeen said that the Christmas Village improved their perception of the city;
- 87% said they were ‘very likely’ or ‘certain’ to recommend the event to friends and family;
- 97% of businesses in the Curated in the Quad Market said that the stall was good for their business.
The Aberdeen Christmas Village was delivered last year in partnership with John Codona’s Pleasure Fairs, Aberdeen Inspired, and Charlie House, with the event raising more than £32,000 for the charity.
Last year saw the addition of a thrill ride alongside the traditional ferris wheel, a new festive light trail, as well as the return of a relaxed festive space in Union Terrace Gardens, which also hosted the Nativity Scene. The event was more inclusive than ever with relaxed sessions, free community events, and sensory packs available to borrow.
The Christmas Village is held from mid-November to the end of December and includes festive food and drink, an ice rink, fun showground rides for all ages, and Curated in the Quad, a Christmas market featuring more 64 local makers including food, drink, crafts, and gifts.