A BIG wheel and a Christmas market are set to return to the city centre for the Christmas period.
The 100ft-tall big wheel opens in Broadgate on Saturday November 22 – giving panoramic views of the city throughout the day and evening – alongside market stalls selling seasonal food, drinks and gifts.
On the same day, the city centre will host a one-off free family event – the Festival of Christmas – from 3pm-8pm – featuring activities and entertainment across various locations.
It will feature street theatre, live performances, illuminated processions and an appearance by Father Christmas.
Coun Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council said: “Last year’s Festival of Christmas event received a huge amount of positive feedback from those who attended, so we’ve decided to host the event again this winter.
“Everyone is invited to attend. It really will bring festive magic to our city centre as we see breathtaking performances, comedy shows and traditional Christmas characters in different locations. The event is suitable for all ages and is the perfect way to start the winter season.
“Our popular Christmas market is also set to return Broadgate along with the big wheel which has been enjoyed by so many over recent years.”
The council’s city centre car parks will be free to use after 3pm on Saturday November 22, Saturday December 20, Monday December 22 and Tuesday December 23.
Coun Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, added: “The arrival of our big wheel, Christmas market and Festival of Christmas really does mark the beginning of the festive season here in Coventry.
“Our festive lights will be switched on for our Festival of Christmas event, and they can be enjoyed by visitors whilst they are spending time in our city centre shopping or enjoying time in restaurants and bars and entertainment venues.
“I’m also pleased that we can offer free after 3pm parking in our car parks for the Festival of Christmas event and also for three days in the final run up to Christmas day.
“As well as Christmas, the lights are used for a number of occasions including Remembrance Day and Diwali. For Diwali, lights will also be switched on along Foleshill Road and Stoney Stanton Road.”
The big wheel and Christmas market will operate every day until Sunday January 4, except Christmas Day.
