Ever since the Granite City’s grey streets were lit with colour for the much anticipated festive season last Thursday, Aberdeen has been more bustling than ever.
If you’ve been brave enough to face the sharp and bitter cold we’ve been treated to this week, you may have noticed the thronging crowd that have been passing through Union Terrace.
Alive with seasonal lights and an array of festive entertainment for all the family, it’s easy to see why this street has become a city-centre hotspot overnight.
At the heart of the winter wonderland is a picturesque ice rink which has transformed the grassy area outside His Majesty’s Theatre where everyone will have their chance to show off their skating talent until Sunday, January 3. This feature is no stranger to Aberdeen and was set up in Union Terrace Gardens last year and on Castlegate the year before. But if you don’t fancy getting to grips with the ice, you could always try out the Bomber, one of Europe’s biggest fairground rides which is often spotted in major theme parks.
The ride, which soars its daredevils 50 metres into the air at a speed of 90mph, isn’t for the faint hearted, but while it’s here, why not test your limits? After all, it is Christmas.
Also pitched up on the street is a German-style market filled with plenty of festive treats and an entertainment marquee.
The line-up for the marquee has been organised by Breakneck Comedy and features a host of talented comedians, bands, singers and choirs. These include Best Girl Athlete, the Rock Choir, the Lorelai, Iron Broo and Dirty Shoes as well as Gary Meikle, Jordon Young and Jamie Dalgleish.
And those who enjoy a tipple while out and about will be delighted to hear that the ban on public drinking has been temporarily lifted for the festive season.
Just last week, the Aberdeen Licensing Board agreed to lift the bylaw to allow alcohol to be sold within the village.
Those partial to beer, cider and wine will be able get their fix between 10am-10pm, while those who fancy something a little stronger, like spirts, will be served between 5pm and 10pm.
Aberdeen’s Christmas Village has been spearheaded by business organisation Aberdeen Inspired and is aimed at encouraging people to venture into town.
It’s hoped the attraction will rival similar events in other major cities and will host a plethora of entertainment in the run-up to New Year.
Just a few steps down the road at St Nicholas Kirkyard, visitors can admire an authentic nativity scene and from mid-December, one of the world’s most eye-catching pieces of art will take pride of place in Union Terrace Gardens as Aberdeen Inspired has worked closely with Australian artist Amanda Parer to help bring the striking public light installation, Intrude, to the city.
The mesmerising display of seven-metre tall inflatable illuminated rabbits will be unveiled later this month and will serve as a precursor to SPECTRA, the increasingly popular Aberdeen festival of light.
So what are you waiting for? Get into Aberdeen and experience the magical wonderland for yourself.