Hull Museums’ ever popular Victorian Christmas will return this week, and for the first time will open over a full weekend.
Visitors will be invited to enjoy the traditional event in the Museums Quarter this Saturday (25) and Sunday (26 November) from 11am until 4pm.
Victorian Christmas ran by Hull Museums, in partnership with HullBID (Business Improvement District) and the Whitefriargate High Street Heritage Action Zone, will be packed full of activities and performances for the whole family to enjoy.
Live festive music will be on offer across the event from the Hull Visual Choir, the Humberside Police Concert Band (Saturday) and Barton Community Band (Sunday) performing traditional Christmas carols along with festive favourites.
A traditional fairground carousel will be on offer and visitors will also have the chance to try some traditional Victorian transport with horse and carriage rides available in Hull’s Old Town.
There’s also the chance to interact with Christmas characters as they wander and perform throughout the Streetlife Museum and the Museums Quarter Garden – look out for Queen Victoria and her Prince consort among others. There will be a number of the short performances throughout the day that will be British Sign Language interpreted.
Younger visitors are invited to get involved in the weekend by dressing as a Victorian. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert will award a family ticket for four people for Cinderella at Hull New Theatre to the best dressed child each day! More information and simple ideas of how to dress as a Victorian can be found at www.hullmuseums.co.uk.
Children’s imaginations will be sparked through interactive storytelling sessions, perfect for young children aged 1-7 with a selection of the performances British Sign Language interpreted.
Alongside music and storytelling, visitors can also take part in a selection of fun festive craft activities, making their own Christmas tree toppers and paper lanterns.
A selection of delicious hot and cold food and drink will be available to purchase throughout the weekend and Christmas shopping is on the cards with a selection of craft stalls selling the perfect handmade gifts for Christmas, available throughout the two days. The wonderful shops at the Hull and East Riding Museum and Streetlife Museum will also be open as usual and stocked full of gift ideas from toys, books and much more.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Leisure said:
“I’m delighted to see Victorian Christmas return for 2023 bigger and better than ever. After such a busy time last year, the decision to extend the event and allow more people to attend over two days is very welcomed.
“The festive period can be an expensive one, so free events like this offer an excellent day out for families and visitors of all ages.”
Jane Avison, Hull Museums and Gallery Manager said:
“We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to the Victorian Christmas event. With a weekend packed full of entertainment and activities there’ll be something to get everyone into the festive spirit.”
The event and activities are free to attend with just a small charge for the carousel and horse and carriage rides.
Anyone attending on the Saturday will also be able to visit Trinity Square where there’ll be a Victorian Christmas themed market with activities scheduled 10am-4pm, including traditional stalls, live music, the Lord Mayor’s Christmas tree Exhibition and Christmas themed trails.
For more information on the event, visit www.HullMuseums.co.uk