Lincoln’s Christmas market has been cancelled

Lincoln’s annual Christmas market has been cancelled after it was deemed unsafe by City of Lincoln’s council decided that “social distancing would be impossible.” The annual Christmas light switch on has also been cancelled.

Simon Colburn, Assistant Director for Health and Environmental Services at the City of Lincoln Council said:  “This has not been an easy decision to make, but the health and wellbeing of residents, visitors, staff and traders, is of utmost importance to us.

“The threat of coronavirus is likely to last for a significant amount of time, and to hold the Lincoln Christmas Market, where social distancing would be impossible, our priority must be the safety of all those involved.

“Given that the Christmas Lights Switch-on is a static event with crowd densities of around 2-3 people per square metre in front of the stage, it would also be difficult to hold a normal Christmas lights switch on if social distancing exists in any form in December.

“Despite this, there is still hope that it  will be the most wonderful time of the year. [There are] discussions to bring smaller, alternative events to the city, to ensure the Christmas spirit remains alive, and to help the local economy during the festive period.”

Many students at the University of Lincoln shared their opinions on the Christmas Markets being cancelled:

“I’m glad it’s cancelled”

“I’m glad it’s cancelled as more than half the people in Lincoln don’t even wear masks and/or keep their distance any more” – Emma

“The cheese stalls were the best part of the market”

“The only highlight of the Christmas market was tasting all the cheeses! Those stalls were the best part of the market for sure”– Anneliese

“I am going to miss the light display”

“Although it’s upsetting as it brought a lot of attraction to Lincoln and emphasised the magic that Christmas brings, it is necessary to cancel such an event in this social climate. I am going to miss seeing the impressive light display with my friends. “– Joe

“My main worry is for the stall owners”

“It is a bit of a shame, but it makes sense. My main worry is for the stall owners, but maybe they can try and sell their stock online, or to a local retailer. The market would have given  local businesses  the support that they  desperately need at the moment.”– James

Finally, a sentiment we all hold dear to us, “This year is officially BINNED” – Jade