Everything you need to know about Christmas at Orchard Square (so far…)

Christmas is coming to Orchard Square!

Orchard Square is getting ready to kick off Christmas in Sheffield, and everyone is invited!

On Thursday 19th November, the Square will host its annual Christmas Launch, in partnership with BBC Radio Sheffield and Classical Sheffield, bringing a little festive magic to the city centre and officially starting the countdown to Christmas.

Taking place between 4pm and 6.30pm, the free family-friendly event will be packed with festive fun, including:

• Live choir performances from Classical Sheffield, with plenty of favourite carols and Christmas songs to sing along to.
• A visit from some very special guests: Thornberry Animal Sanctuary’s rescue ponies, who will be swapping their usual surroundings for a starring role as Orchard Square’s very own Christmas reindeers!
• Mince pies and mulled wine to get everyone into the festive spirit.
• Free Christmas crafts for little elves and grown-ups alike.
• Kids eat free between 3pm and 6pm at Sheffield Plate, the Square’s bustling food hall, where you can enjoy a whole range of global street food under one roof.
• And, of course, the big Christmas lights switch-on at 6pm, hosted by Ellie and Elliott from BBC Radio Sheffield!

Shay Murray, Orchard Square Manager, said:

“Christmas at Orchard Square is always one of the highlights of our year, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone back for this year’s launch with BBC Radio Sheffield.

“It’s a lovely opportunity to get together with friends and family, enjoy some festive treats and kick off the Christmas season. Whether you’re coming along for the choir, the ponies, the mince pies or simply to soak up the atmosphere, there’s plenty to enjoy. We can’t wait to see everyone there!”

Ellie Colton, Breakfast Presenter, and Elliott Green, Producer at BBC Radio Sheffield, added:

“We’re so excited to be part of Orchard Square’s Christmas Launch on Thursday 19th, alongside Classical Sheffield. It’s a brilliant way to get the festive season underway, with lots more Christmas events happening throughout December.

“One of the best things about BBC Radio Sheffield is getting out and about and meeting YOU – the amazing communities across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire. And what better place to do that than right in the heart of Sheffield city centre, with a bit of Christmas magic thrown in!

“Make sure you tune in every morning from 6am to 10am on 88.6FM, or ask your smart speaker to play BBC Radio Sheffield. We’ll even have some fabulous audio from the evening on Friday’s show.

“Merry Christmas everyone! See you on Thursday!”

More festive fun throughout the Square

The Christmas Launch is just the beginning. There’s plenty more happening at Orchard Square throughout the festive season.

Back by popular demand, the Winter Village on the Terrace will once again be serving up a tempting range of festive drinks and cocktails. And there’s something new on the menu this year, too, with Festive Yorkshire Pudding Wraps making their debut.

Whether you’re taking a break from Christmas shopping, catching up with colleagues after work or meeting friends for a festive drink, it’s the perfect place to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere.

Younger visitors can also look forward to the return of Santa’s Post Boxes. Pick up a letter and envelope from participating retailers around the Square, write your Christmas wish list and post it straight to Santa!

Christmas Makers’ Market returns

On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th November, the ever-popular Orchard Square Christmas Makers’ Market will be back.

Expect a fantastic selection of local makers, artists and independent traders, bringing everything from handmade gifts and unique finds to festive treats. It’s a great opportunity to pick up something a little different and support some brilliant local businesses along the way.

There’ll also be charity gift wrapping on Saturday, with proceeds going to Orchard Square’s chosen charity, b, which does fantastic work supporting people in the local community.

Shay Murray added:

“There’s so much happening at Orchard Square this Christmas. From the Terrace Winter Village and Santa’s Post Boxes to our much-loved Christmas Makers’ Market, there’s something for everyone.

“Our venues will also be getting into the spirit, with festive menus, Christmas parties, great food and drink, and plenty of gift ideas. Whether you’re popping in early, staying late or making an afternoon of it, we’d love to see you.

“We want Orchard Square to be the place where people come together this Christmas – to meet friends, relax, eat, drink, shop and enjoy a bit of festive cheer. So make sure you put us on your Christmas list!”

Help make Christmas special with Mission Christmas

Orchard Square will also be supporting Mission Christmas, in partnership with Cash4Kids and Hits FM, between 16th November and 16th December.

The campaign collects gifts for children in need across the local community, helping to make sure more families have something special to open on Christmas morning.

Visitors are invited to donate new, unwrapped gifts at the dedicated collection boxes located in TK Maxx, Café W (Waterstones), Virgin Money and In the Making.

It’s a simple way to make a real difference this Christmas.