Festive Fruit Market fun running up to Christmas
By Rick Lyon
The festive spirit is coming alive in Hull’s Fruit Market in the run up to Christmas.
With an array of activities, including shows, live acoustic music, a winter animal trail, an ‘Elfie Selfie’ photo window, shopping and festive food and drink, the Fruit Market is gearing up for a fun and family-friendly festive season.
Its popular ‘Naughty and Nice List’, for which parents send in their children’s names, will also be on display again.
Natalia Blogg, Fruit Market culture and events manager, said: “We’re delighted to offer a fabulous festive experience that builds on all the fantastic things we already have to offer here in the Fruit Market.
“Whether people come to our fabulous indie shops for some Christmas shopping, catch up with friends over a meal or drinks, or enjoy a leisurely walk around the marina, they’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
“The spirit of Christmas in the Fruit Market is about enjoyment without extra cost. The Naughty or Nice list has been a huge hit this year, with an incredible 17,000 names submitted for our window displays. Now in its fourth year, it’s more popular than ever.
“There’s also a free winter animal trail which is a fantastic way to entertain the family and explore the Fruit Market at the same time.
“The Fruit Market isn’t just a place to shop, relax and socialise – it’s a place to make memories and enjoy the festive atmosphere.”
Social in Humber Street will be hosting an array of live music. Every Saturday leading up to Christmas, from 12pm to 4pm, Fruit Market and Sesh Events will present live outdoor acoustic events, featuring talented artists including the Arkut Brothers, James Wood and Beth Pilling.
The animal trial has been designed and created by local artist Anna Bean. The trail runs from Saturday, December 2 to the end of January, with a prize draw for those who find all the animals.
The Christmas programme also features two shows at SPACE, the new pop-up venue at 1-2 Pier Street.
There will be festive fun and games on Saturday, December 9, with Jeddy Bear & Gary’s Merry Christmas Cracker show. Mince pie flinging begins at 1.30pm, with the show running until 3pm, including a Christmas disco. Tickets are £7.50.
On Christmas Eve, local theatre company She Productions will present Three Wise Women, a heart-warming performance starting at 11am, with tickets costing £4.
There will also be Middle Child’s family-friendly rock and roll panto, Red Riding Hood, playing at Social. This alternative festive show features live music and comedy and is suitable for ages 4+.
Shoppers can indulge in some retail therapy in the indie shops along Humber Street, as well as enjoy a lively selection of cafes, bars and restaurants for some festive refreshments.
In addition to the Christmas festivities, the Good Things Makers Market will return on Sunday, December 3 on Queen Street, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. The market is free to enter.