Final preparations are underway for Richmond’s Christmas Fair & Market, which is being held this Sunday, 7th December from 10.00am-4.00pm in the Market Place.
Residents and visitors are invited to join in the festive fun with live entertainment, Santa’s Grotto, over 50 market stalls and plenty for children to enjoy. This, in addition to Richmond’s wide variety of independent shops and cafes will make for a wonderful family experience.
Following the official opening of the event by the Mayor at 10.00am, a Santa Fun run will set off from the Market Place at 10.30am. Entry is open to all for this 3km run and fancy dress is encouraged (under 11s must be accompanied by an adult). Festive entertainment includes the Spotlight Choir, Richmond Mummers, the Rhythm and Shoes Dance Group, the Ovinos Samba Band, the Ran Tanners, Richmond on Swale Morris, Charlotte Jaqueline School of Dance and a selection of brass band Christmas classics. There will be plenty of roving street entertainment, including some favourite children’s characters from ‘By Madeleine’ in addition to children’s rides and a hook a duck stall. A children’s disco will take place on and around the main stage at 12.30pm, with party dances and festive tunes.
The Christmas Fair & Market is organised by a small group of volunteers on a non-for-profit basis, supported by the Original Richmond Business and Tourism Association. Earlier this year one of the volunteers, Wendy Robinson of Granny’s Kitchen, self-funded a sponsored parachute jump to raise funds for the event, despite having a fear of heights.
The Richmond Christmas Fair & Market has been made possible by the generosity of many local businesses, organisations and individuals. They include: Harmony Energy, The Company of Mercers, Grocers & Haberdashers of Richmond (Yorkshire), the Original Richmond Business and Tourism Association, Browns of Richmond, Richmond Town Council, John Blenkiron & Sons, Granny’s Kitchen, Medieval Music in the Dales, McClarrons Insurance, King Street Kitchen & Gift and Eyecatching Signs. In addition, many members of the community have contributed their time and expertise. The organisers are extremely appreciative of everyone who has played their part in supporting this much-loved event.
On 7th December there will be road closures in Market Place from 6.00am to 6.00pm and a Park & Ride service will operate between Richmond School and Friary Gardens between 9.30am and 4.30pm. Disabled parking will be available in Newbiggin. Normal Sunday parking arrangements will be in place outside the closed-off area.
The organisers are looking for more volunteers who can help on the day. If you are available to help on 7th December, even if it is just for an hour, please email info@originalrichmond.co.uk.