Brighton's ambitious Winter Fayre, which held the distinction of being the UK's only Christmas market located in a seaside resort, has been cancelled permanently after surviving just one challenging season.
The Dream That Washed Away
Launched in 2024 by a trio of local business owners - Anne-Marie Chebib, Becky Stevens and Lisa Norman - the festive market aimed to bring proper Christmas cheer to one of Britain's most popular coastal destinations. The inaugural event took place in Brighton's picturesque Valley Gardens, with the organisers promising the city a 'winter extravaganza it truly deserves'.
However, the reality proved dramatically different from the vision. On opening day, visitors were forced to evacuate as the two-week festival fell victim to brutal coastal weather conditions. According to local publication The Argus, a tent pole collapse forced the cancellation of the entire first weekend of festivities, with severe winds and heavy rain continuing to plague the event during its second weekend.
No Successor Found for Festive Tradition
The three founders have mutually decided to step back from hosting the event this year, and crucially, no replacement organisers have come forward to take their place. Brighton and Hove City Council has confirmed that no suitable candidate has been found to organise a similar Christmas market for 2024.
Councillor Birgit Miller, cabinet member for culture, heritage and tourism at Brighton and Hove City Council, clarified: 'This was a private venture, not a council event, and the reality is nobody suitable has come forward offering to run a similar event in its place.' She added that while there are 'plenty of festive events' taking place across Brighton this winter, there is 'unlikely to be a market-style event'.
Alternative Festive Attractions in Brighton
Despite the loss of the Christmas market, visitors and residents can still embrace the holiday spirit through several alternative attractions. The council highlights Brilliant Brighton's Festive Afternoon, the ice rink at the Royal Pavilion, and the WILD drone light show at Sussex cricket's ground as key seasonal offerings.
Additional highlights include the Christmas lights switch on at Shelter Hall and various festive shows at local venues throughout the winter season. The Artists Open Houses Festival will also provide cultural entertainment for those seeking Christmas inspiration.
A company spokesman for the original Winter Fayre offered a glimmer of hope for future years, stating: 'The team have decided to take a break from the Brighton Winter Fayre this year. We're so grateful for all the support the event has had, and we hope to bring it back in the future.'
