What’s on at The Piece Hall over Christmas including markets and lights switch on
The Piece Hall is gearing up to bring visitors a host of festive activities in the coming weeks.
Visitors can expect Christmas markets, a Christmas trail, arts and crafts, community celebrations, Christmas parties, and a pantomime.
The festive programme will launch on November 13, when Emmerdale’s Dominic Brunt will switch on the Christmas sign and illuminate the 30-foot tree, which will take place on the first day of the markets.
Other highlights will include an interactive pantomime for children, a Victorian carousel, and local talent performing on the bandstand.
There will also be appearances from some of the new Piece Hall Academy Artist Development Programme bands as the latest cohort showcase their talents.
Thousands of visitors are expected to visit ahead of the big day, after last year’s markets welcomed around 276,000 people.
In addition, food and drink vendors at The Piece Hall will be serving festive menu items for visitors to enjoy.
Here is the full list of what’s on at The Piece Hall this Christmas:
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON
4.30pm on Friday, November 13.
Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy Kirk on Emmerdale, will switch on the Christmas sign and illuminate the 30-foot tree.
He will be joined by the Yorkshire Dragons basketball team and The Sing Space Choir, who will perform Christmas classics and create a “wonderful festive mood.”
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Friday, November 13 - Sunday, December 20
Friday and Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
Visitors can browse stalls from 50 local traders showcasing artisan gifts, jewellery, homeware, and seasonal food.
Market sponsor Pure Pet Foods will host a stall every week and give away freebies and treats with a naughty or nice photo board for fun Christmas pictures with visiting pooches.
As well as the 30-foot Christmas tree, the courtyard will feature a traditional Victorian carousel, market bar, and a bandstand sponsored by Heart hosting local talent, including singers, community choirs and brass bands.
CAROUSEL OPENING TIMES
Friday - Sunday from November 13, plus Christmas Eve.
CHILDREN’S CRAFTS AND CHRISTMAS TRAIL
11am - 3pm every Saturday and Sunday in December before Christmas.
PANTOMINE TIMES
Wednesday, December 23.
Matinee: 2pm – 3.15pm
Evening: 5pm – 6.15pm
Suitable for ages three plus.
Children are invited to enjoy songs, jokes, and quick costume changes as they join Goldilocks on an adventure with the three bears.
The interactive performances, brought by SD Theatre, will take place in The Caygill Rooms.
CHRISTMAS EVE
12pm - 1pm: Halifax Minster Choir
2pm - 3.45pm: Queensbury Brass Band
4pm - 5pm: Francesco Rosado
The Christmas Eve celebration will form the grand finale to the pre-Christmas programme at The Piece Hall.
Nicky Chance Thompson MBE DL FRSA, CEO of The Piece Hall Trust, said: "We are incredibly proud to be attracting so many visitors to Calderdale this Christmas while also bringing our local community together in this magnificent, historic setting at the most magical time of the year!
“Our traditional festive experience, complete with beautiful tree, vintage carousel, and live music, alongside the showcasing of our incredible independent shops and local market traders, creates a truly unique festive destination.
“A visit to The Piece Hall is a chance for everyone to make wonderful winter memories while discovering truly special gifts you won’t find on the high street, supporting small businesses and knowing their present choices are helping to preserve the past by supporting this unique heritage site."