Riverside brings Christmas magic with markets, Santa’s Grotto and more

Date published: 28 November 2024

Rochdale town centre is preparing to welcome the festive season with a range of Christmas attractions, including the inaugural Christmas Markets, Santa’s Post Box, and a magical Santa’s Grotto.

The Riverside Christmas Markets will feature 30 stalls each day, set against the backdrop of a Christmas light display and Santa’s Grotto.

Visitors can browse an array of festive treats and gifts, from locally made crafts, clothing, and accessories to jewellery, decorations, and unique stocking fillers.

Organisers Rochdale BID, have promised a cosy atmosphere, perfect for picking out one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting local businesses.

In addition to the shopping, hot street food and warming drinks will be available, offering a delicious way to stave off the winter chill as shoppers explore the market.

Paul Ambrose, Rochdale Town Centre BID manager said: "Our mission this Christmas is to enhance the visitor experience and ensure the town centre continues to transform. Through our wide range of activities, we aim to bring friends and families together, it’s an opportunity to support local businesses, and it gets people in the festive spirit."

Admission to the Riverside Christmas Markets is free, with dates set for:

• Thursday 5 December (4pm – 8pm)
• Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 December (10am – 4pm)
• Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 December (10am - 4pm)
• Friday 20 and Saturday 21 December (10am – 4pm)

For younger visitors, Santa’s Post Box has returned to Riverside, providing children with a chance to send letters directly to Father Christmas.

Located opposite Nando’s, the post box is supported by local businesses including The Works, Max Spielmann, Pionero Lounge, and Costa in the Exchange, where families can collect letter-writing kits to ensure they receive a reply from Santa. “Letters are sent to Father Christmas via special elf magic!”, encouraging families to take part in the festive tradition.

Adding to the Christmas cheer, Riverside will also host a magical Santa’s Grotto, brought to life by Santa’s Village and Rochdale BID.

The grotto has been described as “extremely authentic, rustic, and even smells festive.” Santa will be on hand to welcome visitors into his cosy front room, accompanied by his Head Elf to make the experience unforgettable for families.

Young visitors can share their Christmas wish lists with Santa and receive a gift during their visit. Santa’s Grotto will be open on Saturday 7 & Sunday 8, Saturday 14 & Sunday 15, Friday 20, Saturday 21, Sunday 22 & Monday 23 December.

Slots can be booked online at: www.santasvillage.co.uk

With festive shopping, family-friendly activities, and seasonal treats, Riverside promises a magical experience for all this Christmas.