Bath Christmas Market will be up and running from November 23rd to December 10th and will see more than two hundred traders and thirty six community groups occupy chalets across the city centre. In 2022, the market attracted an estimated 426,000 visitors and boosted the local economy by an estimated £50 million.

Work has also begun to prepare the city and towns with Christmas lights which are being installed in Keynsham, Midsomer Norton, Radstock and several areas of Bath.

Bath and North East Somerset Council is providing traditional lights to the Bath communities of Combe Down, Weston, Moorland Road and Larkhall as well as working in partnership with the three Town Councils on the provision of lights.

There will be lights on Bath’s historic buildings and streets including in and around Bath Christmas Market and at Saw Close, Walcot Street, Kingsmead Square, High Street and Orange Grove.

The annual Keynsham Winter Festival takes place on November 24 from 6pm to 9pm with the theme ‘Let It Snow’. It includes a Christmas lights switch-on, a procession from the park to St John’s Church, Father Christmas and street performers.

Residents are invited to a special preview evening of the market on November 22nd from 5pm to 7pm where people can meander through the magical atmosphere and have an exclusive first look at the fabulous gifts, food and drink on offer.

Councillor Paul Roper, cabinet member for Economic and Cultural Sustainable Development, said: “Christmas lights beginning to sparkle across the district are a great way to end the year and kick-off the seasonal festivities, ahead of the spectacular winter wonderland of Bath Christmas Market that has begun to be created. The market is hugely popular with visitors and increases turnover for local businesses.

“All of the events that are lined up are a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to join together and help create a special atmosphere in our city and town centres. Thank you to our partners and to everyone who has helped provide magical lighting for our communities to enjoy. I look forward to seeing Bath and North East Somerset at its best and another successful Bath Christmas Market get under way.”