Christmas Markets, Santa’s Grotto and live music bring festive goodwill to families
The first of a series of two weekends of feature-packed and brightly-lit Christmas Craft Market was staged at Stonham Barns Park (22 and 23 November) as the venue looks forward to another two days of festive spirit and fun on 29 and 30 November (from 10am – 4pm). The two days of festivities will include the opportunity for Christmas shopping and Santas Grotto visits where children can visit Santa’s Grotto and receive a special Christmas gift!
Speaking about the first weekend, David Sandpearl, Events Manager, at Stonham Barns Park, said: ‘As the song goes ‘the weather outside is frightful’ but still the crowds flocked to the Christmas Craft Markets to check out the wonderful goods provided by our local traders selling their festive goods for the holidays.’
‘With over 80 stalls ranging from handmade jewellery, scrumptious cakes, and bath bombs to Christmas decorations, there was something for everyone. Santa made a visit and welcomed visitors to his Grotto, while the Snow Queen and Elsa were walking around the venue for photo opportunities. We had live music performed by Whitnee Springfield who entertained the crowds in the Market Square.’
‘For those who missed it, we are doing it all again this weekend from 10.00pm to 4pm each day. Parking is free so you can stay as long as you like!’
With mince pies, mulled wine, live music and Christmas lights Stonham Barns Park – one of Suffolk’s premier leisure and entertainment venues – will again pull out all the stops again to put on another weekend of shopping and activities for both adults and children. The Snow Queen, Elsa and some magical elves including Snowball, Sparkle, Holly and Tinsel will be attending as part of the weekends for photo opportunities.
Talented Suffolk exhibitors will bring their handmade crafts, artisan foods and unique wares. From intricately designed decorations and pottery to scented candles, textiles, children’s toys and gourmet treats, the stalls are a celebration of Suffolk’s creative spirit with some exhibitors offering demonstrations of their skills.
Explains Terri Forward from Stonham Barns Park, ‘Christmas is all about families spending time together and – as always – we are making the season truly magical with our annual Christmas Craft Markets.’
‘The gift and craft retailers attending are offering some delightful gifts and decorations. Suffolk is known for its creativity, and we will be exhibiting some of the best artists and craftspeople the county has to offer here in one place again at the weekend.’
The markets will feature uniquely handmade, handcrafted gifts and products. In addition, visitors will be able to shop at the retail village which is packed with 1000s of Christmas gift ideas. There are arts and craft shops, the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Carters of Suffolk pottery and newly enhanced tearooms and Legends Bar.
The events offer visitors free parking and free entry.
Tickets for the grotto – suitable for the under 12s – will cost £10 per child. Advanced booking is recommended, with limited on the day bookings also available.
Other retailers at Stonham Barns Park include Aspal Antiques, Aspal Emporium, Aspal Reclamation Yard, Stonham Garden Centre, Carters of Suffolk, Hemingstone Frames, Hot Tub Village, Tiger Sheds, Stonham Village Stores, Suffolk Bridal Outlet, The Beauty Barn, The Vintage Cellar, The Book Cellar and The Little Dance Barn. Among the most recent retail additions to the village La 3D Print Artistry, Sakura Studio Gallery, Glen’s Collectables, Ben’s Corals, Emmett’s Emporium and Bella’s Pet Shop.
For more information call Stonham Barns Park on 01449 711111 or visit www.stonhambarns.co.uk
