Yes, it’s finally that time of year: you can dig out your beloved festive knit and wear it out in the world once again. On November 5 Bristol’s Christmas Markets will be returning to the city centre. Follow the crowds of people wrapped up thick coats and woolly hats, give a friendly nod to Alfred the singing moose at the market entrance, and explore the wonderland of stalls decked out with curious penguin sculptures and giant candy canes.
After its unsurprising cancellation last year the market is back to light up the bustling streets of Broadmead. There you’ll find twinkling fairy lights glinting off decorative baubles and over 50 alpine-style huts brimming with Christmas goodies. Expect everything from sticky toffee moonshine and delicious Yorkshire wraps, to intricate snow globes and glass ornaments.
When your feet ache and shoulders are heavy with present-stuffed bags, you can pay a visit to the Jäger Barn Bar. The Bavarian-themed haven offers a cosy respite, where you can treat yourself to a traditional German Glühwein (which literally translates to glow-wine because it makes your cheeks glow after being out in the Winter air), a toasty mulled cider or, for the sweet-tooth, a hot chocolate with a shot of Bailey’s. If that doesn’t sound heavenly enough you can also escape the chill by sinking into heated seating. Fancy something a little more private? Brand new this year are some snug igloo pods, which you can book for exclusive use.
To truly help you get into the festive spirit there is a giant Christmas tree; topped with a gleaming star in the centre of the market. If that doesn’t quite cut it for your kids, they can help Santa find his missing sack of toys. All they need to do is solve five tasks hidden in the market and claim a much-deserved family fun pack. Christmas will no doubt be saved daily in the hands of the little helpers. Plus, they may even get a chance to meet the red-coated man himself and – when December rolls around – a reindeer or two.
Of course, there’s no Christmas without a corny song or the familiar melodies of an old festive classic. To provide the soundtrack to your day at the market will be a variety of live music from local musicians. Try and resist humming along when you visit – we dare you.