This year's Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre promises to be a truly spectacular event, with nearly 200 stalls filling the city's streets from Thursday 28 November until Sunday 1 December.
Now in its 27th year, the Victorian Christmas Fayre is one of the most prestigious street fayres in the Midlands. The event regularly attracts over 100,000 people across the four days - contributing an estimated £7 million to the local economy each year.
"The Victorian Fayre is one of the highlights of Worcester's festive calendar, bringing in visitors from across the UK and the most remarkable mix of traders, all offering unique and exciting produce and gifts," says the Mayor of Worcester, Cllr Allah Ditta.
"Many of the items sold at the Fayre's stalls have been made locally, bringing a true flavour of the city of Worcester to your shopping experience! You're guaranteed to pick up some fantastic Christmas gifts and there will also be lots of great street entertainment too!
"So come along and enjoy all the festive fun!"
Whether you're looking for a Christmas decoration, a piece of unique jewellery, an unusual item for the home or some edible festive treats, you won't be disappointed with the choice on offer.
Look out for Victorian characters in Gin Lane, lofty entertainers on stilts, children carol singing on performance stages around the city centre and buskers on every street corner.
Come and enjoy the unique atmosphere and sample traditional roast chestnuts and warming mulled wine – and don't forget to take a ride on the magnificent carousel in the Cornmarket!
The Fayre is a chance to step back in time, enjoying the sights, smells and sounds of how Christmas might have looked 150 years ago as the Victorian atmosphere fills the historic streets of Worcester.
It all starts with the traditional official opening ceremony on the evening of Thursday 28 November at 4.45pm, when officials and Cathedral choristers will process from the Cathedral to the Cornmarket, where the Mayor will officially declare the Fayre to be open.
Carols will be sung by the Worcester Cathedral Voluntary Choir accompanied by the Salvation Army, and there will be a short biblical reading and prayer. The opening ceremony will finish shortly after 6.00pm.
For visitor information, go to www.worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk or visit the Worcester Tourist Information Centre, next door to The Guildhall on Worcester High Street.
