New Christmas market could be coming to Kingston this year

By Charlotte Lillywhite - Local Democracy Reporter 4th Jul 2025

CGI of Après Kingston. (Credit: Seventa Events, provided in Kingston Council documents)
CGI of Après Kingston. (Credit: Seventa Events, provided in Kingston Council documents)

A new Christmas market could be coming to Kingston this year, with festive food and drinks, a giant Christmas tree, games and live music.

Après Kingston would be held annually in Kingston town centre, starting this year, if the plans are approved by Kingston Council.

Seventa Events has unveiled plans for "a modern alternative to traditional Christmas markets, designed to appeal to all ages" on the lawns of All Saints Church. It would be held from November to January every year.

An outdoor seating area would welcome guests into the market, along with a 30-foot-tall walk-through Christmas tree and places to take photos.

It would have festive food stalls and alpine huts selling Christmas gifts from local artisans and national brands nestled among illuminated trees, along with a bar, ski gondola booths and heated domes.

The market would have a heated tipi with seating, another bar, space for children's craft classes and visits from Santa. There would be curling lanes and a shuffleboard area with free games and bookable spaces, live music, entertainment and festive workshops.

The plans were first considered at the council's Licensing Committee on 20 May, but the hearing was adjourned so the applicant could provide more details and considered on Thursday (July 3).

Seventa Events submitted a detailed statement outlining the plans to the council ahead of Thursday's hearing, which said the market would help Kingston to become a "vibrant and unique destination".

Councillors agreed the applicant had provided enough information for them to make a decision at the meeting.

The statement said: "Having successfully delivered immersive festive destinations in Bournemouth, Cambridge, and London, we bring a modern, energetic, and experiential approach to Christmas, ensuring every visitor has an unforgettable time.

"Après Kingston will be a vibrant, festive pop-up, designed to energise the town centre, attract visitors, and support local businesses. Our concept blends social, interactive, and high-quality festive experiences to create a destination where people come together to celebrate."

It added: "While this may be Après Kingston's first year, we are already laying the groundwork for a fresh, innovative Christmas brand in Kingston – one that will grow year on year, bringing new and exciting experiences to the town."

The council will publish its decision on the application in the coming days.

     

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