AS THE festive season approaches, Aberdeen’s Marischal College Quadrangle is set to transform into a magical Christmas market, showcasing the talents of more than 50 of the north-east’s finest producers and creatives. Running for six weekends starting from Friday, November 17, Curated In The Quad promises a unique and enchanting experience, bringing together a diverse array of locally-produced arts, crafts, clothing, homeware, gourmet food, and drinks.
The response from local firms, artists, and artisans has been “overwhelming,” with the event gaining popularity year after year. Organised in partnership with Aberdeen Inspired, the market is not only a celebration of local talent but also a major fundraiser for the charity Charlie House, aiming to improve the lives of children in the North-east of Scotland with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions.
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Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, expressed excitement about the event’s potential to draw thousands into the city centre during the holiday season. He noted, “Curated In The Quad is now as much a part of Aberdeen’s Christmas as turkey and all the trimmings,” emphasising its role in showcasing the best offerings from the region’s small, independent producers.
Last year, the market raised an impressive £22,000 for Charlie House, and this year’s edition aims to surpass that figure. John Brebner, CEO of Charlie House, spoke eagerly about the event’s return, anticipating that the fantastic lineup of stallholders will enhance Aberdeen’s holiday shopping scene. He thanked the community for their continued support of both Curated In The Quad and Charlie House.
Aberdeen Lord Provost, Dr. David Cameron, expressed his delight at the return of Curated In The Quad, highlighting its role in featuring local producers and makers, encouraging everyone to shop locally this festive period.
Among the stallholders is Roelene Lawtie of Curiously Charmed, offering her unique resin jewellery. She emphasised the importance of community support for small businesses and praised the market’s fun atmosphere, describing it as a family outing for everyone. Lawtie also highlighted her support for Charlie House, acknowledging the crucial work they do in the Aberdeen community.
Curated In The Quad will be open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays each weekend from November 17 to December 23, excluding Christmas Eve Sunday. As part of the Aberdeen Christmas Village on Broad Street, the market, brought to the city by Aberdeen City Council, Codona’s, and Aberdeen Inspired, promises to be a highlight of the holiday season. Aberdeen Inspired, as the city centre Business Improvement District (BID), is actively supporting the planned festive events in the heart of Aberdeen.
In the spirit of festive cheer, Curated In The Quad invites locals and visitors alike to experience the magic of the season while supporting local businesses and contributing to a worthy cause.
