THOUSANDS of people will enjoy stepping back into the past as the Christmas fayre gets underway later this month.

The Worcester Victorian Christmas Fayre is returning in 2024 at the end of November with traditional and modern events packed into the weekend celebration.

When does the Worcester Christmas Fayre begin?

The four-day event will get underway at midday on Thursday, November 28.

It will be officially opened by Mel Allcott, Mayor of Worcester, during a ceremony which will begin at 4.45pm in Worcester Cathedral.

The ceremony will last around an hour with a community carol service taking place at the cathedral before a procession makes its way towards the Cornmarket at 5pm.

What is the Worcester Christmas Fayre's opening times?

  • Thursday, November 28: 12pm to 9pm
  • Friday, November 29: 11am to 9pm
  • Saturday, November 30: 10am to 9pm
  • Sunday, December 1: 11am to 5pm

What market traders will be at the fayre?

Over 140 traders have already been announced, with market stalls, food vans and portable bars lining Worcester's streets.

Traders will be set up in Cathedral Square, Cornmarket, the High Street, New Street and the Shambles. 

Worcester favourites such as Piston Distillery and Barbourne Cider will be bringing their produce to the city centre, with traders from further afield like Charcuterie Hereford and Cotswold Game and Meat will travel in for the event.

Read more: Worcester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival 2024

Read more: Tudor Christmas event at Greyfriars House, Worcester

What entertainment will be at the fayre?

You can't have the fayre without the funfair, and this year will be no different.

The funfair will be open on all four days of the event for visitors to take a trip on the classic carousel.

Numerous characters will be roaming the streets throughout the weekend, including stilt walkers, 19th century literary favourites and residents of Victorian Worcester.

How to get to the fayre

First Bus will be running a Park and Ride from Sixways stadium to Crowngate Bus Station, as well as a number of extended services which will run later than normal.

There will be dozens of locations to store bicycles around the city centre, and Beryl bikes will be available from stations across the city.

While there are several car parks around the city centre, visitors have been warned that they can get busy during the celebrations.