ONE of the milestone events in the run up to Christmas, the annual Worcester Victorian Fayre, is finally back this week.

The four-day extravaganza begins on Thursday, November 30, and runs until Sunday, December 3. 

Thousands of people flock to Worcester from across the country for the event which brings millions into the city's economy annually.

 

When does the Victorian Fayre get underway?

 

The market gets underway at noon on Thursday but traditional opening ceremony takes place between 4.45pm and 5.45pm.

The ceremony gets underway with a carol service, which everyone is invited to, at Worcester Cathedral at 4.45pm. 

Worcester News: CROWDS: Thousands attend the Victorian Fayre events (picture 2019)CROWDS: Thousands attend the Victorian Fayre events (picture 2019) (Image: Nick Franklin)

At 5pm there will be the traditional procession to Cornmarket when the event will be officially opened by The Mayor of Worcester Councillor Louis Stephen.

 

What are the opening times for Worcester's Victorian Fayre?

 

The fayre takes place:

 

  • Thursday 30 November; noon - 9.00pm
  • Friday 1 December; 11am - 9pm
  • Saturday 2 December; 10am - 8pm
  • Sunday 3 December; 11am - 5pm

 

What to see and do at the Victorian Fayre

 

This year there will be a staggering 200 stalls selling all sorts of delightful Christmas goodies including locally-sourced food, drink, crafts and unique gifts. 

Stalls will be in High Street, Cathedral Square, Pump Street, New Street, Friar Street, Cornmarket and The Shambles.

Worcester News: STALLS: The stalls at the Victorian Fayre (picture 2019)STALLS: The stalls at the Victorian Fayre (picture 2019) (Image: Newsquest)

Visitors can enjoy a host of festive traditions such as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine.

 

What about entertainment at Worcester's Christmas fayre?

 

There is a fantastic programme of entertainment including Victorian characters and lofty entertainers on stilts. 

No visit to the Fayre would be complete without a ride on the traditional vintage carousel - and other rides - in Cornmarket.

There will be three stages with entertainment on throughout the event.

The stages will be based in Cathedral Square, Bell Square and Cardinal's Hat.

Worcester News: FUN: The famous Victorian Christmas Fayre carousel (picture 2022)FUN: The famous Victorian Christmas Fayre carousel (picture 2022) (Image: Joseph Broady/Newsquest)

Among the performers will be primary schools, Worcester Ukulele Club, saxophone performer Mandy Harding, Foregate Street Blues, Lolly Parton and The Salvation Army. 

Stilt-walking super sleuths Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson will be solving some complex crimes around the streets of Worcester on Saturday.

And Scrooge will be around on Saturday between 11am and 3pm. 

For a full list of entertainment and times visit worcesterchristmasfayre.co.uk, and follow our coverage on the Worcester News website.

 

How to get to the Victorian Fayre

 

As city centre car parks get busy during the event visitors are recommended to find alternative modes of transport. 

The park and ride will return for the duration of the fayre.

Worcester News: SETTING UP: A park and ride service to the event will be available from County Hall to the FayreSETTING UP: A park and ride service to the event will be available from County Hall to the Fayre (Image: Worcestershire County Council)

The park and ride service is being operated from County Hall (WR5 2NP) dropping off at Crowngate Bus Station.