Two festive events are planned to spread Christmas cheer at Surrey Street’s Sunday market this month.
Little Canada is to return to the market on Sunday 10 December, with their Quebec Winter Carnival. The event celebrates 123 years of the annual carnival and will see a range of market traders and activities bring a taste of a Canadian Christmas to Croydon.
Among the offerings will be handmade Christmas ornaments and hand crafted Canadian themed trinkets, hot waffles smothered in maple syrup and fresh cream, Canadian beers, cocktails and wine and brandy, as well as hot chocolate, butter tarts and pecan pie.
Visitors will be able to have their picture taken with the famous Bonhomme de Neige who has been the official mascot of the carnival since 1955, while also enjoying face painting and live music, including a performance from a gospel choir. The event will take place between noon and 7pm.
The following week will see A Hoodoos Christmas Carol brought to Surrey Street. Starting at 10.30am the Christmas market will have live music and food and drink to be enjoyed by those wanting a short break from Christmas shopping. There will also be a range of arts and crafts stalls for those looking for last minute Christmas gifts. Performers at the event which runs until 5pm, will include The Frisbys, John Lovell, The Busking Choir and Coffee Pot Drive.
Councillor Mark Watson, cabinet member for economy and jobs
“I’m delighted these events will be part of Croydon’s festivities. I hope everyone gets behind the independent traders on Surrey Street in the run up to Christmas as there’s no better place to buy the trimmings for your Christmas dinner or find some unique Christmas gifts.”
The festive events come as new festoon lighting is set to be installed on Surrey Street, but the coloured lights are not just for Christmas and will be left up to bring a splash of colour to the market all year round.
The weekend before Christmas, the market will have different opening hours operating from 8am to 6pm on Saturday 23 December and from 8am to 5pm on Sunday 24 December. The Sunday market will then take a break over the festive period, returning on Sunday 14 January with an event centered on healthy living. It will then operate every other weekend from Sunday 11 February.
For more information on Surrey Street’s Sunday market click here.
