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St Albans Christmas event can’t expect council subsidy.

Mix Mornings with Elly O'Meara


Leader of St Albans council, Paul de Kort emphasized the importance of ensuring the sustainability of events like St Albans’ recent Christmas Cracker. While acknowledging their immense value to the community and local economy, he expressed a clear view that general council taxpayers should not bear the financial burden. Instead, he proposed that funding should come from a combination of sources, including the Business Improvement District (BID), local businesses, and broader sponsorships. Plans are already in motion to secure diverse funding to maintain and grow similar events without relying on public subsidies.

De Kort also acknowledged that while these fairs generate widespread benefits, they may not reach every district resident equally due to their location. However, he underscored their significant contribution to the community, attracting visitors, bolstering local businesses, and creating a festive ambiance that defines the holiday season in St Albans.

The St Albans Christmas Street Fair has been hailed as a tremendous success, drawing large crowds and fostering a festive atmosphere that extended well into the evening. Paul de Kort, reflecting on the event, highlighted the remarkable turnout and the length of time attendees spent engaging in the festivities, showcasing the event’s strong appeal.

One of the fair’s standout achievements was its celebration of local talent. The event featured a diverse array of entertainment and retail offerings, emphasizing not only food and drink—a staple of such gatherings—but also unique goods from local vendors. Efforts to broaden the range of options proved successful, with businesses benefiting from heightened foot traffic. Observers noted long queues at bakeries and other local shops, underscoring the event’s economic impact on the area.

More about: Local Life, Politics, Things to do St Albans

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