Oxford's Christmas event in Broad Street is set for a new look this year as a new organiser has been selected, as has a company to illuminate the city centre with festive decorations.
Oxford City Council has confirmed Keston Events will be organising this year's event while Gala Lights will be in charge of the city centre's festive decorations.
Keston Events is known for delivering successful events such as the Kingston Christmas Market in south west London and the Gun Wharf Quays Christmas Village in Portsmouth.
It was one of several organisations to submit a plan when the council invited expressions of interest earlier this year.
The firm will be transforming Broad Street in a new way, moving away from the traditional market model and offering various options for families, community groups, residents, and visitors to enjoy throughout the festive season.
Details are being finalised and Keston Events is working with the council, businesses and stakeholders to ensure the event is a success.
Gala Lights, meanwhile, has won the contract to decorate the city centre with Christmas lights.
Due to the council’s tight budget, the amount allocated to festive lighting has not been increased, but it said an "enhanced display is expected".
Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, cabinet member for business, culture and an inclusive economy, said: "This is an excellent opportunity to reinvigorate Christmas celebrations in Oxford.
"The new Broad Street layout offers a chance to use a different approach that we think will be attractive for visitors to the city centre, and the update to the Christmas lights will look great.
"Our new partners Keston are bringing fresh and innovative ideas to the city and I'm looking forward to seeing those ideas in action."
George Gregory, managing director of Keston Events, added: "Keston Events are honoured to have been awarded the opportunity to organise the Christmas in Oxford event.
"We are looking forward to getting this year’s Christmas festivities underway in the city centre.
"With new attractions, live entertainment and local goods, we will have all the trimmings to make Christmas in Oxford the best ever.
"Together with the council, we are confident this will position Oxford as a major festive destination, and one we are excited to build upon in the years to come, one to rival other national and European cities.
"The additional visitors this will bring will also have a positive impact right across the city, particularly for existing hotels, shops, bars and restaurants."
The council will work closely with Keston Events and Gala Lights to prepare a programme of festive events throughout the city.
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