The Mayor and Santa switch on the lights

Knutsford’s favourite Christmas Market kicked off the festive season last weekend, with a packed two-day celebration on 3rd and 4th December.

Over 130 stalls filled Princess Street and Silk Mill Street both days, selling a variety of artisan products ranging from homemade art and crafts, locally brewed beers and alcohol, festive bakes and lots of exciting gift ideas.

Thousands attended the event which also featured the Santa Parade on Saturday, supported by Knutsford Hosts and We Are Knutsford. Santa paraded up King Street and Minshull Street alongside City of Chester Brass Band and Travelling Light Circus performers before arriving in Canute Place ready for the big Switch On.

The Mayor of Knutsford was joined by his cadet, Jamie, and Santa Claus to light up Knutsford for the festive season at 6pm, followed by a headline performance from Small Horse & The Plan.

Santa also visited lots of children during the weekend at his Grotto, which was kindly supported by and in aid of CAFT. Children also enjoyed rides from John Collins Funfair, who were open all weekend on Princess Street car park.

Sunday saw live entertainment from Get Back Band and Knutsford Beats, both of whom were busking to raise money for various charities.

Alex Brown, Events Officer at Knutsford Town Council, said: “This was our busiest Christmas Market yet – we were thrilled to see thousands enjoying the market and entertainment throughout the weekend. It was our first full Christmas Weekend since 2019 following the pandemic and poor weather conditions last year, so it was fantastic to finally bring back the event in full this year. We hope everyone had a great time welcoming in the festive season in Knutsford!”

The festivities continue this weekend with the Mayor’s Christmas Crib Service on Saturday 10th December at 4pm outside the Lost and Found, where the Mayor and local churches will bless the town crib, followed by brass music, Christmas carols and mulled wine and mince pies courtesy of Knutsford Catenians! A Christmas Remembrance Service follows at Knutsford Cemetery Chapel on Sunday 11th December at 4pm, where residents can remember those who have passed this year.

If anyone would like to provide feedback on this year’s event, you can contact enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or call 01565 653 929.