Representatives of Chester organisations gathered in the Cathedral to hear about events and activities in Chester over the Christmas period.
Christian Marcucci M,D of Marketing Cheshire spoke about a really busy summer and autumn Destination campaign. Funded by Avanti and local partners, the campaign targeted high value travellers and encouraged visits by train. Resulted in at least 2400 train visits to Chester and 5750 visitors. Estimated impact on the local economy was £1.3 million. Christian thanked the hotels and businesses who supported the recent World Town Crier Tournament- an event which brought joy, colour and increased footfall to Chester. 137 national and international news articles were posted about the event- including the Times, Telegraph, Mirror and others. The forthcoming Christmas Market has already been declared one of the top 10 best markets in Europe.
Chester Cells– Rob Foulkes of BIG Heritage – who also operate Sick to Death and Deva Roman Experience, spoke of the new attraction which opens on the 24th October. First time public access to the Victorian cells beneath the Town Hall. The tour will provide the chance to see the history of Chester from an another perspective.
Chester Zoo : Our Story, a 50 minute immersive experience featuring David Attenborough- the zoo is the first location outside of London to host the event. Chester Zoo to bring Sir David Attenborough’s Our Story to the north of England for the first time – The Chester blog
Storyhouse– Creative Director Suzie Henderson spoke about upcoming shows and events. Jane Eyre (10-21 Nov) a Storyhouse original described as a “vibrant and beautiful ensemble piece”. The Christmas show is Rapunzel (4 Dec- 3 Jan) Younger children will enjoy The Reindeer who saved Christmas (14-24 Dec) . There will be a full programme of Christmas films at Storyhouse/Rooftop Social. 2027 will be a celebration of Storyhouse’s 10 year anniversary.
Chester Christmas Market will run 18 Nov to 22 Dec with 80 stalls, 85% being local businesses from Cheshire/North Wales, featuring old favourites and new traders.
Eastgate Square will host a Halloween throwdown event 24 Oct- 1 Nov, a free family event. Christmas decorations will be enhanced this year and the new toilets will be open very soon. There will be events over Christmas in the centre every Friday, Saturday and Sunday including the Salvation army brass band, cookery workshops and visits by a giant gingerbread man,
Chester BID- have produced a Chester Christmas gift guide. The Chester gift card is accepted at 150 businesses in the city. There will be a Christmas trail with the chance to win a gift card. The BID are funding free parking at the racecourse from the 21 Nov- 20 Dec. A Christmas clean up will be taking place focusing on shopfronts and jet washing. This years grotto will be in Eastgate square featuring a magic elevator that transports people to the North Pole.
Chester Cathedral – The Christmas Tree festival launches on the 24th Nov with over 80 trees- this years theme is Spirit of Christmas. The events programme includes a range of candlelight music events and The Snowman.
