Festive cheer post lockdown with Winter Fair enjoyed by all
Following the news that outdoor events could still take place within the Government Tier 2 guidelines, the Winter Fair at the South of England Showground went ahead last weekend, with tickets sold out for both days, and with festive fun had by all.
Organised by the South of England Agricultural Society, the fair—which ran through the weekend (5th & 6th December)—was a shopper’s paradise, offering visitors the perfect opportunity to get their Christmas preparations sorted post lockdown and enjoy a festive family day out.
There was a plethora of goodies on offer from local and independent traders including mouth-watering gin liqueurs, homemade jams and chutneys, gourmet pies, cheeses, wines and handmade Christmas puddings and chocolates—a big hit with food and drink lovers. The fair also featured a great range of unique gifts and stocking fillers from wooden toys, artwork, jewellery, lovingly produced leather and cashmere fashion, to natural soap, grooming gift sets, stunning home accessories, Christmas decorations and more.
The Winter Fair was the second COVID-secure event hosted by the Society this year after both the Spring Live! and main South of England Show had to be cancelled due to lockdown restrictions. All profits will help the Society fulfil its charitable remit – this includes educational work such as inspiring schoolchildren to learn about food production and appreciate the value of the countryside, to offering travel bursaries for people working in the farming sector, or helping fund agricultural research as well as showcasing the land and its industries to the public at the South of England Show and Autumn Show & Game Fair
Corrie Ince, Show Director at The South of England Agricultural Society, commented:
“Despite an uncertain period thanks to lockdown number two, we were absolutely thrilled that we could postpone the Winter Fair and proceed with the event this weekend rather than cancel. Everyone has had such a tough year and it was wonderful to not only help so many businesses promote their offerings, but also provide the public with a fantastic festive day out in the fresh air that they could enjoy with their family and start getting properly into the Christmas spirit.
“I’d like to thank everyone that supported the event from those who purchased tickets, to the wonderful exhibitors, and of course the incredible team at the showground, our volunteers and trustees who worked around the clock to make this event safe for everyone in such difficult times. I hope that everyone who came enjoyed the day out and has a lovely Christmas with their loved ones.”
The South of England Agricultural Society’s next event will be Spring Live! which will take place on Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th April 2021. Tickets and more information will be available from www.seas.org.uk in the new year.