Bolton’s 2022 Christmas Festival has been hailed a success with hundreds of visitors enjoying the attractions.
The Santa’s grotto, festive market, roller rink, fairground rides, tepee bar, live music and free children’s activities attracted visitors of all ages.
This was the first year that the festival has been able to operate without COVID restrictions, with the return of the grotto and the opportunity for children to meet Santa in person.
Grotto tickets completely sold out the week before Christmas.
As part of Bolton’s Holiday and Activities Food Programme, around 800 children were also able to enjoy the skating and other play and youth activities for free.
More than 600 school children from local primary schools were also given free skating sessions in the run up to Christmas.
Plans are now being put in place to ensure Bolton delivers another fabulous festive event for locals and visitors alike in 2023.
Bolton Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said: “Events like this bring visitors to the town and help boost the local economy in the run-up to Christmas.
“It was wonderful to see so many people of all ages enjoying the Christmas festival.
“There was a fantastic atmosphere about the town and we’re already looking forward to making plans for this year’s festival.”
The Christmas Festival was supported by main sponsor Step Places, partners Warburtons and Crompton Place Shopping Centre alongside other commercial supporters.