It’s a real shame, Durham’s Christmas Festival 2020 is cancelled.
Durham Christmas Festival’s organisers have announced the cancellation of this year’s festival, owing to the current uncertainties and likely restrictions caused by the coronavirus pandemic. These restrictions are making it unrealistic for the organisers and traders to commit to the event, taking into account the large number of people who would normally visit during the course of the festival weekend.
Colin Wilkes, Managing Director of Durham Markets Company which operates the festival with Durham University, commented:
“It has been a very difficult decision but unfortunately too much uncertainty remains. Durham Christmas Festival will take a break for 2020, but we will be back in December 2021.
“For 26 years, Durham Christmas Festival has brought together hundreds of independent traders in the heart of Durham and welcomed 1000s of visitors into the city. For many, it has become the start of the festive season, with the annual Children’s Lantern Procession a particular favourite for families.
“We regret that we’re not able to provide our region’s independent traders with what is a very valuable trading opportunity for them. We hope that, as Christmas nears, everyone will look to support small businesses from around the region, and that the festival will return at the beginning of December 2021. Christmas without Durham Christmas Festival just won’t be the same.”
The Festival was launched in 1993 and has grown over the years to include markets on Palace Green and in the Cloisters of Durham Cathedral, festive music around the city, and special seasonal events in the Cathedral, Castle and Town Hall. The three day festival has become the busiest shopping days of the year in Durham City Centre.
