Shoppers will be entertained when they go to Douglas over the next few weeks.
The Continental food and crafts fair starts from Thursday, when the lights are switched on. It will continue till November 28.
It has been organised by Peterborough-based the Market Square Group and supported by Douglas Development Partnership.
‘We invited local traders and suppliers specialising in seasonal fare and homemade arts and crafts items to join this week-long event, the first of a number planned in the run-up to Christmas,’ said town centre manager Michelle O’Malley.
A local craft fair will take place on Thursdays and Saturdays from November 30 through to December 21 frin 5pm to 9pm Thursdays, and 10am to 5.30pm Saturdays.
‘These fairs will be another a great opportunity for Manx specialist suppliers and crafters to showcase their wealth of creative talent and imagination,’ said Ms O’Malley. ‘Anyone wishing to apply for a stall needs to give me a call as soon as possible.’
A Christmas tree has been erected in Regent Street, the town centre’s planned new performance space where, throughout Saturday, December 21, an ice sculpture sponsored by Sure can be seen being created by artists Stephanie Quayle and Darren Jackson.
In addition, there will be entertainment from brass bandsn buskers, school choirs and charity groups.
Meanwhile, shops in the town will compete in the Best Dressed Business competition.
Ms O’Malley said: ‘We’re hoping retailers will really support the competition by making their window displays eye-catching, which not only will help attract more visitors to the town but will also bring a little added Christmas sparkle to Douglas.’
Windows must be dressed to thrill by Thursday, November 28. The winning businesses will be chosen by public vote on Facebook.
To vote, visit Douglas town centre management’s Facebook page, check out photos of entrants’ displays and cast your vote.
Voting closes at 5pm on Friday, December 20, and the winners will be revealed the following day.
To book a stall for the November 30 to December 21 Castle Street local craft fair or to apply for a street entertainer’s pitch contact Michelle O’Malley, MOMalley@douglas.gov.im, 696304.
Free parking on Loch Promenade walkway from 9.30am to 9pm every day from Thursday, November 21, to January 5 (parking not permitted in this area between the hours of 9pm and 9.30am).
There will also be free parking in Douglas Council’s Shaw’s Brow and Bottleneck car parks from 5pm to 10pm on pre-Christmas Thursdays from November 21 and all day Saturday and Sunday until December 24.
