Our spectacular festive programme for 2022 will see our iconic heritage site transformed into a wintry wonderland.
This year the courtyard will play host to a stunning skating rink (kindly sponsored by TuffShop.co.uk) and a series of heart-warming activities, including Winter Makers Markets, live gigs, classical music, comedy shows, brass bands, mini raves, craft workshops and festive family films.
Once again, The Piece Hall will capture the spirit of Christmas and set the scene for a magical season with twinkling lights, a beautiful vintage carousel and the annual landmark Christmas tree (kindly sponsored by Grand Central Rail). The outdoor skating rink – a synthetic Glice rink which is more environmentally-friendly than traditional ice – will be the sparkling centrepiece from 1 – 31 December.
80s legend Martin Kemp has been confirmed as a headliner and is just one of dozens of top acts who will be performing, as we welcome back the ever-popular Spiegeltent. This magnificent wooden structure with a lavishly decorated intimate performance space and dancefloor will play host to a full month of entertainment for all the family.
The Spandau Ballet star will be taking to the decks for an uplifting set of iconic 80s classics to get everybody moving and singing along, from Duran Duran and George Michael to Chaka Khan and Michael Jackson.
Other acts performing over the festive period include a debut from Radio 2 presenter and Garage don DJ Spooney; West End star and Britain’s Got Talent finalist Ben Hart; and on the back of their highly acclaimed album “Dear Scott”, Michael Head & The Red Elastic Band.
Nicky Chance-Thompson DL, CEO of The Piece Hall Trust, said:
“We really want to share the magic this Christmas. The festive season is all about family, friends and coming together to make memories, and we’ve worked really hard to make sure our winter programme has something for everyone!
“There will be a full month of top-class shows in the Spiegeltent and an ice rink in the courtyard for the first time since the refurbishment. What’s more, our fabulous Markets are back and we’re bringing in our biggest tree yet! So whether you’re partying, shopping independently for gifts or just want to experience a great festive day out, The Piece Hall will definitely get you in the Christmas spirit.”
The build-up to Christmas also sees the return of our ever-popular Winter Makers Market for two festive shopping weekends. 50 local stalls will be full of gifts and goodies on Friday 11–Sunday 13 November and Friday 18–Sunday 20 November with different traders each weekend. Expect a bustling, cheery atmosphere and the chance to sample the produce of pop-up food and drink stalls plus the opportunity to buy unique local artisan products and presents. Local acoustic musicians will be providing an uplifting seasonal soundtrack.
Open every day, The Piece Hall’s resident independent traders will continue to offer an unrivalled selection of gifts and have everything you need for underneath the tree. Shoppers can browse and buy everything from original art works to toys, books and games, unique keepsakes, stylish home wear and the finest current and vintage fashion, plus jewellery, crystals, handmade chocolates and sweet treats. And when you’re all shopped-out, why not snuggle-up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate at one of The Piece Hall’s fantastic resident bars and restaurants?
For those planning to embrace a handmade Christmas, there will be plenty of arts and crafts sessions to take part in during the season, including Jesmonite casting to learn how to make beautiful and unique gifts, as well as glass decorations and textile wreath workshops to adorn homes and share season’s greetings in the build up to the big day.
So, whether it’s festive family fun, a glide on the ice, gifts galore, DJs and dancing or sophisticated soirees with friends, The Piece Hall has Christmas all wrapped-up!
Tickets for all Christmas events and workshops will go on general sale from 10am on Friday 30 September via The Piece Hall website, with a member pre-sale for a selection of shows taking place at 10am on Thursday 29 September.