PREPARE to unwrap your tinsel and wear your favourite festive hat as the Christmas market is returning to Southampton.
The event has been pulled back from the brink after the original operator Wela Märkets pulled out for undisclosed reasons.
The market will run from November 17 to December 24.
S&D Leisure has stepped in at short notice to spread Christmas cheer in the city – and this is what people think.
‘Best news’
Commenting on the Daily Echo’s Facebook post about the news, several people shared their thoughts on the announcement.
Tagging someone in the post, Emma Louise Welsh said: “@Alex Welsh this is the best news you’ve had all year.”
Others were pleased the city is able to provide a festive attraction.
READ MORE: Saved! New operator puts on Christmas market in Southampton
Jack Holland said: “Southampton wasn’t a complete let down this Christmas.
“Hopefully a new, different market will bring a new festive atmosphere.”
Caroline Hampton said: “I don’t think we’ll see a difference - apart from Flying Santa.
“Let’s just enjoy. Merry Christmas everyone!”
‘Good for the leisure industry’
Some Southampton residents expressed their gratitude for the council’s efforts to organise the event.
Chris Zardis said: “Fair play for the council managing to organise something - anything - so late in the day.
“I will still miss the authentic German elements and the food brought over from Germany.”
READ NEXT: The exact date in November you are officially allowed to put up your Christmas tree
Those who are not massive fans of the market are still seemingly happy about its return.
Jemma Brown said: “I hate it but recognise it’s good for the city’s leisure industry.”
Olive Bartlett commented: “I expected someone would run a Christmas market, and hopefully it will be more interesting than the last few years.”
One commenter is calling for independent businesses to be involved.
Harrison Brown said: “It would’ve been nice to see local, small business being supported.”
Do you agree? Are you excited about the return of the Christmas market?
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