The Simply Christmas markets have been hailed as ‘the best markets yet’ by visitors that flocked to the Royal Square for the event. For two long weekends, Genuine Jersey and Simply Christmas joined forces to deliver the Island’s largest ever artisan and producers markets, celebrating local talent and spreading festive cheer.
Over 50 different stall-holders participated in the markets, offering inspirational Jersey gifts to shoppers as well as joining in with the occasional sing-song and dance provided by local entertainers. Many remarked that they would love to see the event return to the Royal Square every year, with those on social media commenting that they would make the trip over to Jersey should it become a fixed event in the Island’s calendar.
Sarah Taylor, organiser of Simply Christmas, said: “This was our first event at this location and it really could not have gone any better. The wet and cold weather did not deter shoppers, nor did it dampen the great atmosphere we had here on both long weekends. We had so many people delighted by the event and at the variety and standard of gifts on sale, I already have a queue of those eager to sign up for next year’s markets!”
John Garton, Chief Executive Officer of Genuine Jersey, said: “We were delighted to have partnered with Sarah on this winter’s Christmas markets and would love to work with her again on future events. Our huge thanks go to the sponsors of the markets and all those that came out in force to support our local producers, craftworkers and artisans.”
The event was kindly being sponsored by Signtech and Islands Insurance and raised £2,289.81 towards Variety, the Children’s Charity of Jersey through a raffle to which each stallholder donated an item. Further funding was also granted to the Genuine Jersey Products Association by the States Growth Department to support this event.
Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lyndon Farnham, said: “This is exactly what Jersey is all about, coming together as a community at this special time of year to celebrate our unique produce. It really was a wonderful showcase of the creative talent we have on the Island and I would wholly support its return to the Royal Square next year. Events like this are helping to develop our Christmas offering so that we can encourage more visitors to come to the Island during the Christmas season.”
