The team behind Aberdeen’s winter village have hailed it a success after revealing more than half a million people enjoyed the various attractions.
Families, friends and shoppers all flocked to the winter wonderland on Union Terrace, which offered visitors an array of stalls, entertainment, an ice rink and fairground rides.
A total of 515,972 people flocked to the Christmas village after it opened in late November, helping spread festive cheer throughout the city.
The event was organised by Aberdeen Inspired, in partnership with the city council and Codona’s.
Gary Craig, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said the public’s response went “way beyond” expectations and proved there is an appetite for events of this scale in the city.
He added: “The footfall figures for the village are incredible, with over half a million people enjoying everything it had to offer.
“It was fantastic to see everyone get into the festive spirit in the heart of the city centre and we are determined to carry this positive momentum forward as we continue preparations for our renewal ballot.”
Aberdeen Inspired, which the Business Improvement District has operated since 2012, is drawing to a close but it is hoped the positive response will be used as a springboard for future projects should the organisation gain renewal ballot success.
Mr Craig said: “In order to build on initiatives like the Aberdeen Christmas Village we need the support of our levy players in the upcoming ballot.
“Our hard-working and talented team wants to continue to bring forward projects to enhance the city centre and are hugely excited about our current project plans.”
The festival was also hailed by retailers across the city in the rundown to Christmas, with many suggesting it had persuaded people across the north-east to stay local – rather than heading to Edinburgh or Glasgow for their festive offerings while doing their shopping.
And last night Aberdeen City Council’s deputy leader Marie Boulton also praised the event.
She said: “2015 was Aberdeen’s biggest winter festival and the Christmas Village helped to make it a huge success.
“We would like to thank everyone who visited and enjoyed the village, the stall-holders, musicians and comedians for their contribution and our staff and partners for all their hard work.”