Christmas Comes To East Cowes Thanks To Local Businesses

Christmas is coming to East Cowes today (Friday) as the town pulls out all the stops to put on a day filled with fun and festivities.

Market Days CIC’s ‘A Christmas Market’, sponsored by Red Funnel, is being held alongside a 'Christmas in the Square' event organised by the East Cowes Business association in partnership with the East Cowes Town Council.

The event will run from 12pm until 6pm.

Red Funnel will be providing free family activities for shoppers and passers by, as well parking facilities.

There will also be fun festive themed hands-on activities provided by local business Unravelled Learning which runs immersive interaction with heritage and nature. 

Families will be able to add colour to a collaborative piece of art, commissioned by Red Funnel and created by local artist Polly Zanardi.

The team from Garage Inc will be holding a free grotto from 4pm-6pm — and will be raising funds for the British Heart Foundation and Mountbatten.

The Donkey Sanctuary will also be making an appearance with a few of their donkeys.

Adam Butler from Garage Inc said:  

"We want to make the kids happy and give back to the community."

Claire Kennard Director of Market Days CIC said:

“We are delighted to work with Red Funnel to help bring vibrancy and activity to East Cowes, a place where there is such as strong sense of community.

"The East Cowes Business Association and partners have been fantastic in organising the entertainments and putting on this Christmas event and we look forward to this fun family orientated day and bringing opportunities for local makers and traders with the market.”

Fran Collins, Chief Executive at Red Funnel: 

“We are proud to be sponsoring the East Cowes Christmas Market this festive season. As well as being a fantastic opportunity for the local community to come together and celebrate after a difficult 18 months, the market provides an opportunity to support the brilliant businesses we have on the Island. We look forward to kicking off the festive season in style on December 3rd.”

Island makers and producers will be in attendance with food and produce including the Garlic Farm, Wild Island and Isle of Wight Mushrooms, and local artisans including Thomas P Cochran Silver Jewellery, AJB Beauty and Pamper, Kissma Lily homewares, Sandown Sweets, Isle Be Jewellery and Goodland Isle of Wight Outdoor Backpacks and Neddies Bar.

Tracy Reardon, Secretary of the East Cowes Business Association, said:

“The East Cowes Business Association has been involved in Christmas in the square for well over 25 years, this community event has given lovely memories to the people and especially the children of East Cowes at this magical time of year!

"This year the East Cowes Business Association is reviving the market and providing free entertainment for all, it is hoped that everyone will come along to support us whilst making more festive memories of our wonderful town."