North End Road's Christmas Market Attracts 17,000 People
Big success means four more traffic free events planned for 2017
Star guest Made in Chelsea's , Georgia "Toff” Toffolo joined in the fun to switch on the road’s Christmas lights.
"We’re so lucky to have this market," said Georgia. "I live just around the corner and I come three to four times a week to pick up my fruit and veg but when we get the road closed and have a day like today it’s really special."
Musical entertainment included ZHL String Ensemble, Timeless, Lyra, Kloak and Enne. Children were delighted to see Father Christmas. And street entertainers, including a walking Christmas tree, reindeers and stilt walkers, raised laughs as they wandered up and down North End Road.
Sir John Lillie Primary School took a stall to sell bags hand-painted by pupils with North End Road-inspired designs. "It’s a brilliant opportunity for the community to get together," said teacher Andrea Thompson. "It’s been lovely having children, teachers and staff out being part of the community."
In late 2014, councillors brought stallholders and businesses together in the North End Road Action Group (NERAG). Since then, the council says it has been working closely with NERAG to renew and strengthen North End Road as a shopping destination.
"Since our first traffic-free market in North End Road in December 2014, we’ve built what has to be the largest Christmas street market in London, if not the country," says Ben Coleman, Cabinet Member for Resident Satisfaction. "My thanks to all the residents who’ve worked so hard with the council to create this success.
"The demand from residents and stallholders now means we’re looking at doing four traffic-free markets next year."
You can find more information at the North End Road market web page where you can also download a factsheet about becoming a stall holder and application form.
You can also call the street trading team on 020 8753 3916, who will answer any questions.
December 22, 2016