A BIG WHEEL and Christmas marker is set to return to Broadgate in Coventry.
The wheel will be open from November 15 for adults and children and the market stalls will sell a range of festive food, drinks and gifts will be on Broadgate too.
The festive lights will be on in the city on the same day ahead of a family free event for Christmas.
The Christmas festival will take place on November 20, which is also the start of the late-night shopping in Coventry.
Coun Abdul Salam Khan, deputy leader and cabinet member for events, Coventry City Council said: “We are delighted to see the return of our popular Christmas market to Broadgate along with the big wheel which was enjoyed by so many last year.
“There will be no price increase for the big wheel – all ticket prices will remain the same as last year.
“This year the city centre will see a new event, the Festival of Christmas, which will be free to attend and will replace the traditional Christmas lights switch on.
“It will allow us to utilise our city space effectively and means everyone can enjoy the big wheel and Christmas market at the same time as our new Festival of Christmas, which I am sure will be a big hit with young people and families.”
The council will offer free parking for entry after 3pm on November 20 and 27 as well as December 4, 11, and 18.
Coun Patricia Hetherton, cabinet member for city services, added: “The arrival of our big wheel, Festival of Christmas and Christmas market shows we are committed to having a Christmas offer in the city centre that residents can enjoy.
“The festive lights really do brighten our city centre. They can be enjoyed by those who are in the city centre in the evening late night shopping or spending time in Coventry’s restaurants and bars.
“The lights are used for a number of occasions including Remembrance Day and Christmas, as well as Diwali where lights will also be switched on along Foleshill Road.
“The financial challenges that we face as a council mean we may not be able to do as much as we would like or what we have done in the past, but I’m sure the offer will see people enjoy them whilst visiting the city centre.”
Joanne Glover, chief executive of Coventry BID, added: “Christmas is always a very special time in the city centre and it’s set to be a jam-packed six weeks for businesses and families alike.
“There will be plenty to see and do and we are looking forward to the celebrations and making it another festive season to remember.”
The wheel is over 100ft at its highest point and is supplied by the giant wheel company.
The city’s Christmas offer is being delivered by Coventry City Council in partnership with Visit Coventry and Coventry BID.
