The annual ‘Aldgate in Winter’ festival is preparing to bring some early festive cheer to the local community, starting later this week.

Despite the drop in temperatures, the event will warm everyone’s hearts with a range of family-friendly activities from 3 December to 17 December.

The Winter Market and Lantern Parade takes place on the corner of Middlesex Street and St Botolph Street on Friday 3 Dec (3:30pm to 7pm), featuring a feast of food, music, and activities, as well as a Community Dinner hosted by Toynbee Hall. The Aldgate Lantern Parade will weave its way through the streets, led by the Barbican’s Drum Works, with school groups from The Aldgate School, Canon Barnett Primary, Christ Church C of E Primary, Harry Gosling Primary, English Martyrs Primary, and Prior Weston Primary.

From 6 to 17 December, the Aldgate in Winter Exhibition will illuminate windows across the area in a vibrant display created by members of the local community.

Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee, Ruby Sayed, said:

“These wonderful community-based events bring local people together, and I am sure that this year’s ‘Aldgate in Winter’ will be as popular as our previous festivals in this ancient part of the City.

“I hope that everyone has a fun-filled, enjoyable, and safe time and if it’s not too early, I would like to wish you a very happy Christmas and New Year.”

With health and safety as their top priority, the ‘Aldgate in Winter’ organisers are encouraging everyone to wear a face covering, and to consider taking a lateral flow test before attending the festival.

ENDS

Notes for Editors:

Andrew Buckingham, Media Officer (Public Services), City of London Corporation

T: 07795 333060 / E: andrew.buckingham@cityoflondon.gov.uk

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally-successful UK. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk

About ‘Aldgate in Winter’:

‘Aldgate in Winter’, which is co-produced with over thirty local organisations, businesses and groups, first took place in 2017 and has grown ever since into an annual celebration of community. The Aldgate Lantern Parade typically marched through the streets, holding lit up lanterns created by schools, residents, and local clubs, and culminated in Aldgate Square for a winter fair and performances.