University of Suffolk Christmas Fair to kick-off Ipswich festive weekend

An illuminated drone show is set to light up the Ipswich Waterfront in a spectacular first for the University of Suffolk's Christmas Fair.

The public event, part of the university's 10th anniversary celebrations, will kick off a weekend of festive markets in Ipswich.  

More than 30 stalls will fill the university's Waterfront Building foyer and plaza outside by the waterfront during the event on Friday 20 November, from 2.00-7.00pm. 

The festive marketplace will bring together visitors and the wider Suffolk community with students, alumni, staff, charitable organisations, and local independent businesses and entrepreneurs to feature stalls offering artisan gifts, festive food and drink, sweet treats, crafts and much more. 

As well as the stalls, the event will include performers from Eastern Angles Theatre Company, St Elizabeth Hospice Choir and the drone show. 

In addition, the university’s Christmas tree lights will be switched-on by a very special guest. 

Visitors will be able to enjoy a dedicated University of Suffolk showcase featuring interactive activities for children and adults alike, which is hosted by university academics and staff, including an Esports gaming stand, a Where's Santa game and drawing Christmas wreaths. 

Professor Jenny Higham, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Suffolk, said: “As we continue to mark our 10th anniversary with our local community, the festive season offers a wonderful opportunity to welcome visitors to the campus – a first Christmas Fair offer from Suffolk’s only university. 

“Visitors can enjoy tasty treats, look for Christmas goodies and take part in a variety of family-friendly activities with our course teams to soak up the festive atmosphere across the town.” 

The university’s Christmas Fair will kick off a weekend of festive markets in Ipswich and is part of seasonal festivities being coordinated as part of the Ipswich Central 'Follow the Stars' activities. 

On Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 November, Ipswich Town Hall, Corn Exchange and Cornhill will transform into a winter wonderland, with a Christmas fayre and Santa’s grotto, while the annual Saints Christmas Market on Sunday 22 November in St Peter’s Street and St Nicholas Street will create a bustling hub of independent vendors. 

To find out more about the University of Suffolk Christmas Fair, visit the event page on the website here.

For further information on events activities for the university’s 10th anniversary year, head to the website here.