On Wednesday evening (20 November), thousands of people were in the city centre to enjoy the enchanting Festival of Christmas.
The spectacular live event, which was free to attend, featured a captivating array of performances including a mesmerising aerialist, festive comedy show, magical story time with Santa, a fire and ice show and a giant snow globe with a mysterious snow queen.
Visitors were also greeted by roaming performers and festive characters throughout the evening, including polar bears, festive elves, time travellers, giant living lampposts and vibrant drumming processions from LED drumming group, Spark!.
The event was held in areas across the city centre, including Broadgate, where visitors were also enjoying the Christmas market and big wheel.
People shared their enjoyment on the Coventry City Council Facebook page with one commenter saying “Congratulations and thanks Coventry City Council. Town was packed, great atmosphere and fabulous performances!” Another added “It was a really lovely event and trail through the city centre. Lovely to see so many families out enjoying it. Our fab city lit up and full of fun as it should be!”
The event marked the start of late-night shopping in the city as well as the opening of the Vintage Sleigh Ride Experience at Coventry Transport Museum.
Cllr Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council, said: "Last night's event was fantastic. So many people joined us in the city centre for our Festival of Christmas event. The feedback we have received from those who attended it brilliant and we're so pleased so many people were able to enjoy it.
"The event was perfect for families and allowed everyone to enjoy performances at significant locations around the city centre including the Cathedral Ruins and Millennium Place.
"The festivities have well and truly begun in Coventry and I hope to continue to see people heading into the city centre to enjoy the market, big wheel and late-night shopping."
The ever-popular big wheel and Christmas market are open and will be in place until Sunday 5 January, with many stalls selling a range of festive food, drinks and gifts. The market and wheel will be open every day, except Christmas Day.
The Council’s free parking offer for late-night shopping also started on Wednesday. The offer will be in place for entry after 3pm on the following dates in Council-run city centre car parks:
- Wednesday 27 November 2024
- Wednesday 4 December 2024
- Wednesday 11 December 2024
- Wednesday 18 December 2024
Find out more about what’s happening in the city centre over the festive period on our events page.