Deck the Hall: Events at the Piece Hall for Christmas

Posted By: Joshua Robinsonon: October 06, 2023In: Business & Innovation, Culture & Entertainment, Current Affairs, News, Regional News

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Deck the Hall: Events at the Piece Hall for Christmas

By Joshua Robinson –

The Piece Hall has unveiled a packed winter programme with more than 50 gigs, shows, workshops, and events to celebrate the festive season.

Stars appearing in the Spiegeltent include Julian Lloyd Webber, Martin Kemp, Kimberley Wyatt (The Pussycat Dolls), Chris Difford (Squeeze), P.P. Arnold, The Haggis Horns, and boxer Johnny Nelson.

The Piece Hall’s Georgian aesthetic will be further enhanced by the addition of sparkling decorations, twinkling lights, and a 45ft Sitka spruce Christmas tree.

For the first time ever there will be a vintage big wheel in the courtyard, accompanying the much-loved Victorian carousel which is now a regular feature of the season, and the longest run of Christmas Markets yet, extending over three weekends.

CEO of The Piece Hall Trust Nicky Chance-Thompson MBE, DL said: “This year’s Christmas programme is spectacular! With performances from iconic stars from the worlds of pop, rock, classical and dance there is something for all tastes. And with family workshops, Christmas parties and children’s theatre there’s something for all ages too! We’re evoking the true spirit of a traditional Christmas with our vintage rides, spiegeltent and classic tree.”

“Come to our markets, come to a show, come to Christmas shop or just to soak up the atmosphere; come to a workshop to make decorations or a wreath, but most important of all, come to spend some time and make beautiful memories with the ones you love in the most perfect setting.”

The season begins in November with the return of the Christmas Markets, running from Friday through to Sunday on the last three weekends of the month, there will be musical entertainment and late-night opening.

There will be 50 stalls of local artisan products and produce to browse, with special seasonal treats and offers for shoppers at the cafes, bars and restaurants.

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In the run up to the big day, The Piece Hall will open late every Thursday for extended shopping time. Selling everything from soaps to sweet treats, fashion and accessories to books and records, plus an array of collectables and vintage items.

The Salon Perdu Spiegeltent:

All Christmas gigs, shows and events will take place in the Salon Perdu Spiegeltent.

2023 will sees its most varied programme yet, ranging from cabaret and comedy to community choirs and classical concerts, with rock and pop stars and world class DJs, featuring everything from salsa, soul, funk and house to indie, brass, choral and jive.

Highlights include first appearances from house music legend DJ Terry Farley, classical stars Julian and Jiaxin Lloyd Webber, Kimberley Wyatt, P.P. Arnold, Haggis Horns, Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra, The Mersey Beatles, Chris Difford and Melvin Duffy, Live Killers and Dick and Dom. There will also be a Loafers Xmas Party, with acoustic performances from The Seahorses’ Chris Helme and Nigel Clark from Dodgy, alongside indie and Northern Soul DJ sets.

Firm favourites Martin Kemp, Craig Charles and Graeme Park are also back alongside local heroes Ellie Sax, Elland Silver Band, and the oldest amateur choral society in Britain – The Halifax Choral Society.

The Spiegeltent will also host a selection of festive arts and crafts workshops for families to make decorations, cards and keepsakes, some free of charge.

Adult workshops, including wreath and candle making, lino and Indian woodblock printing are bookable in The Dinsdale room in November.

Restaurants and Cafes:

Flagship restaurant, The Trading Rooms will serve a traditional Christmas meal every day in December from noon and with live music from local talent every Thursday to Saturday. Brand new for 2023 is the gallery grotto, a private dining space for up to 20 people.

The Astronomer specialises in beautiful food, designed for sharing, taking inspiration from around the globe. With regular offers and events it makes the ideal spot for meeting mates and festive date nights.

The Deli has a number of dishes with a seasonal twist plus Christmas hampers packed full of local produce and also stocks The Piece Hall Gin.

Or head to Blondin’s Coffee Lounge and Ice-Cream Parlour for a special festive dessert or special sundae with clementine, chocolate orange, mince pie, and gingerbread flavours.