A glistening big wheel and Christmas market are set to return to Broadgate as part of the city’s Christmas offer.

The big wheel opens on Saturday 22 November, offering rides for both adults and children throughout the day and evening. Market stalls selling seasonal food, drinks and gifts will also be set up in Broadgate, bringing festive cheer to the heart of the city.

On the same day, the city centre will also host a one-off free family event – the Festival of Christmas. Running from 3pm – 8pm on Saturday 22 November, the event will see a magical trail of activities and entertainment taking place across various locations in the city centre.

The Festival of Christmas will transform the city centre into a celebration that everyone can enjoy, with spectacular street theatre, live performances and dazzling displays – from magical illuminated processions to an appearance by Father Christmas.

Enhancing & Promoting

Councillor Abdul Salam Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Events, 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 throughout the city centre. 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.”

Coventry City Council will be offering free parking for entry after 3pm on the following dates in Council run, city centre car parks:

Councillor 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.”Supplied by The Giant Wheel Company, the wheel is over 100ft at its highest point, giving panoramic views of the city.

Subject to planning permission approval, the wheel and market will open to the public on Saturday 22 November. The wheel and market will operate every day until Sunday 4 January, except Christmas Day.

The city’s Christmas offer is being delivered by Coventry City Council in partnership with Visit Coventry.