The 50th anniversary of Stevenage indoor market is to be celebrated this Saturday (December 9) with a Christmas Gala.

The market opened for the first time on December 6 in 1973, and has been serving Stevenage shoppers ever since.

It replaced the previous outdoor market, which had been in place since the new town was built after the Second World War.

The Comet: The old outdoor market in Stevenage town centre, ahead of its move to the indoor market.The old outdoor market in Stevenage town centre, ahead of its move to the indoor market. (Image: Stevenage Borough Council)

Traders will be marking the 50th anniversary of the market with a range of activities, including a visit from Father Christmas, face painting, balloon modelling and performances from the Woolenwick School choir and a Mr Marvel puppet show.

Plenty of tea and mince pies will be on offer for those coming along, as well as the usual range of locally-made products from the independent traders in the market.

There will also be a grand opening of the Tree of Light, showing off Christmas trees that have been made by children from local schools as part of a community project.

Cllr Loraine Rossati, executive member for culture, leisure and information technology at Stevenage Borough Council, said: “Fifty years of the Stevenage Indoor Market is a real milestone and one that is definitely worth celebrating.

"What better way to do it than with a Christmas Gala Craft Fair, packed with entertainment and Christmas stalls?

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"If you’re wondering what to get that person in your life who has everything, find your inspiration there.

"Shopping locally and supporting our businesses in the town is essential for our retailers to thrive and this is just one of the ways you can help them, while having a great time!”  

The Indoor Market Christmas Gala will be held from 10am until 4pm on Saturday, December 9. is on 9 December, 10am to 4pm. It’s going to be bursting at the seams with fun, fun and more festive fun! See you there!