As the curtains close on Aberdeen’s Christmas Village for 2023, the festive extravaganza organized by Codonas has left citizens and visitors alike with a sense of joy and celebration. Organizers are reveling in the success of the six-week spectacle, featuring a dazzling ferris wheel and an ice rink, which proved to be a resounding hit on Broad Street.
Codonas, the driving force behind the event in collaboration with Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeen Inspired, has received “incredible” feedback from the thousands who flocked to the Granite City to partake in the holiday festivities. The Operations Director for Codonas shared enthusiasm, stating, “The feedback received from visitors at the event has been incredible. The new Ferris wheel has undoubtedly been one of the busiest rides at the fair this year.”
The novel additions to the Christmas Village, including the Aberdeen Christmas Village letters, giant Teddy bear, and Christmas bauble decorations, have become Instagram-worthy attractions. Groups of friends and families could be seen queuing up for photos and selfies next to these charming installations, adding an extra layer of magic to the holiday experience.
The Chief Executive of Aberdeen Inspired expressed delight at the overwhelmingly positive feedback from visitors. “Once again, the glittering Aberdeen Christmas Village has been at the heart of the Granite City’s festive season,” they remarked. The Village secured its place as the fifth-best festive market in the UK for 2023, solidifying Aberdeen’s position as a must-visit destination during the holiday season.
They continued, “I have no doubt it will have attracted thousands of people into the city centre, boosting local shops, bars, restaurants, and businesses.” The economic impact of the Christmas Village extends beyond the event itself, contributing to the vibrancy and prosperity of Aberdeen’s local economy.
The Curated in the Quad festive market, held in conjunction with the Christmas Village, showcased the creativity of Aberdeen and north-eastern artisans. This market not only provided a platform for local creatives but also contributed to a noble cause, raising almost £25,000 for children’s charity Charlie House.
The Lord Provost of Aberdeen commended the festive events that unfolded throughout the holiday period. “From the Christmas lights switch-on parade to Christmas Village and Curated in the Quad market, there has been something for all ages to enjoy,” they remarked. They noted their pleasure in witnessing families explore the festively adorned Union Terrace Gardens, reinforcing the community spirit and festive cheer that permeated the city.
Emphasizing the commitment to supporting local businesses, the Operations Director highlighted the increased collaboration with regional food and drink producers at the Christmas Village. The move proved to be a hit among visitors, with stalls featuring offerings from local whisky distillery Glen Garioch, gin distillery The House Of Botanicals, and food operators Smoke & Soul, Angus & Oink, Cookie Cult, Big Mannys’ Pizza, and The Vegan Bay Bakery.
The Operations Director expressed Codonas’ delight in supporting local companies, stating, “We have been delighted to work and support so many local companies in the market and the village.” The collaboration between the Christmas Village and local businesses not only created a festive atmosphere but also bolstered the economic fortunes of the region.
As Aberdeen bids farewell to its Christmas Village for another year, the success of the event reverberates through the city streets. The glittering lights, joyful laughter, and the sense of community fostered by the Christmas Village will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression, ensuring that Aberdeen remains a beacon of festive celebration for years to come.
