Storm Darragh forces cancellation of Newark’s Christmas entertainment — but Steampunk market will go ahead in Buttermarket

Due to forecast adverse weather conditions, Newark’s outdoor Christmas markets and entertainment has been cancelled — but indoor attractions will continue.

Newark Town Council has once again has to take the decision to call off the entertainment event this weekend (December 7 and 8), some of which had been rescheduled from the cancelled Christmas Lights Switch-On.

It stated: “It is with sincere regret that once again we are forced to announce a cancellation of the forthcoming weekend’s Christmas Markets and Entertainment. This time Storm Darragh has decided to present itself at precisely the wrong time for it to be able to confidently proceed safely. The forecast for both Saturday and Sunday in terms of wind gust speeds is in excess of those forecast for the Christmas Lights Switch-On event which also regrettably had to be cancelled.

“The focus of the weekend’s entertainment would have been around the main stage, and regrettably the stage and production company have already indicated that they do not feel able to safely proceed based on the weather that is expected. Several of our regular market traders have also begun to cancel.

“Our events staff who routinely put huge amounts of effort into planning free local events are extremely disappointed especially as this is the second time in as many weeks we have been forced to make such decisions.

“As always, the safety and comfort of all visitors, guests, performers, and event staff is the paramount concern in any decision to cancel an event. No one involved makes these decisions lightly.”

Despite this, there will still be a range of Christmas-themed events to enjoy in town this weekend, as indoor entertainment can safely continue.

The Buttermarket will host an indoor Steampunk market on both Saturday 7 and Sunday 8, where a variety of stalls will trade their wares.

This will take place alongside the popular Christmas Tree festival which this year takes place on the mezzanine of the Buttermarket due to construction works taking place at Newark Parish Church. An admission fee applies to the display, which showcases trees decorated by a number of schools, community groups and organisations.

Several of the regular market traders will still be present on Saturday, but will be trading from their vehicles so as to avoid the risk of stock being blown around and compromised.

Subject to weather conditions on the day, The Steampunk Torch light procession due to take place on Sunday evening at 4.45, starting from Kirkgate, may still go ahead.

Newark Town Council will publish details on social media channels on Sunday to confirm the decision on this aspect of the weekend.

The council’s markets team will contact all traders who may be impacted by the cancellation.