Christmas is coming - celebrate with a festive skate and Bristol's biggest independent Christmas market!

On Saturday, the At-Bristol Ice Rink officialy welcomed in the festive season to the Harbourside, as the Christmas lights were turned on, and the first day of the Harbourside Christmas Market got underway. 

The market is being held on Millennium Square and Anchor Square every weekend from 11-5, featuring Bristol’s best artists, designer-makers, producers, collectors and creators, all selling ethically and sustainably sourced goodies. Highlights include a 8 metre UpFest gallery featuring 5 street artists, installed at the Market every weekend; and Jim Parkyn's (from Aardman fame) Scene Machine, a unique interactive event creating a large-scale 3D relief picture populated by a team of clay sculptors and event visitors. 

This year there is also a live music stage in Anchor Square where visitors can choose a mulled treat from the Market bar, settle under a blanket on the deckchairs around the fire pits, and enjoy bands, singers and the resident market DJ, surrounded by specially commissioned décor by Shambarber. The Christmas tree, which has been donated by Almondsbury Garden Centre, will be situated next to the ice rink marquee, adding to the festive feel of the ice rink!

The At-Bristol Ice Rink opened on 7 November and runs until 5 January; tickets are on sale now, and include sessions open to the general public, schools groups, evening ‘Disco Boots’ sessions and special under-eights ‘Little Boots’ sessions on weekend mornings.

Tickets will cost £8.50 for adults, £7.50 for concessions and £6.50 for children, with reduced entry rates for group bookings and a discount for booking online. Opening times vary, so please visit www.at-bristol.org.uk/icerink or call our Bookings team on 0117 915 1000 (Monday to Friday 9-5) for more information. The ice rink will be closed on Christmas Day.

Millennium Square car park will unfortunately be closed as the ice rink opens, as it undergoes repair work following a car fire in the car park in September. Alternative parking options are available nearby, as well as good public transport links, visit at-bristol.org.uk/gettinghere  for further information.