An eclectic bunch of artisan producers will arrive in Leamington as part of two new-and-improved seasonal markets from October, as organisers look to support local hospitality in the build-up to the festive season.
More than 60 unique traders will bring their finest wares to The Parade as part of the Leamington Autumn and Christmas Markets, and CJ's Events Warwickshire, which is organising this year's celebrations, is looking to ensure that business is not taken away from local establishments.
This year's line-up has been curated to supplement the variety of creators working in Leamington by bringing together cuisines and crafts that are hard to find in the town centre, with new traders arriving every Sunday from October 3 between 10am and 5pm.
Independent food stalls and distilleries will be joined by craft makers and artists in an open-air market in The Parade to share their products with the public, with themed activities to be discovered each week.
The first week will host a mini farm, where young visitors can pet Kune Kune pigs, ducks, chickens, pygmy goats and friendly farm dogs, while a slime workshop will compliment a Halloween themed market on Sunday, October 31
A Christmas lights celebration will mark the transition to the festive period on Sunday, November 7, before the Christmas Market takes over two weeks later.
Each week will feature children's activities, including Jack in the Box and Christmas bauble workshops and an Elf on the Shelf trail from November 21, as well as a chance to see Santa and his reindeer on December 19.
The usual festive goodies and unique gifts will also be available, all made by independent producers, with live music from the Jaguar Land Rover Band.
Jamie John Walker, Company Director at CJ's Events Warwickshire, said: "Our intention for this year's markets is not only to provide a fantastic offering of independent producers, but to ensure that we are supporting rather than clashing with the town's existing businesses - who may have been heavily affected by the pandemic.
"We have run many successful markets and events across the district since 2015, so we're excited to be hosting these in partnership with Warwick District Council, who we have been working very closely with to deliver an exciting experience that compliments Leamington.
"As well as guest themes each week, we will also be hosting various creation stations, allowing the whole family to get hands on to create a range of crafts that they can take home including volcano science projects and Christmas baubles.
"We can't wait to get started and are looking forward immensely to welcoming all visitors for a special few months at the heart of Leamington."
For more information for food and drink traders interested in exhibiting at the event visit http://www.cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk/ or contact the events team on 01926 800 750 or e-mail info@cjseventswarwickshire.co.uk
ENDS