The towering, big wheel and a cosy Christmas market will return to Broadgate next week, bringing a magical festive atmosphere to the city centre.
The big wheel opens on Friday 13 November, offering sweeping views of Coventry and an exciting experience for both adults and children throughout the day and into the evening.
Broadgate will also host a collection of seasonal stalls, serving winter treats, handcrafted gifts and warming drinks to help kick‑start the Christmas spirit.
The city centre will also welcome back the much-loved Festival of Christmas – a free family event on 21 November. The enchanting event will feature a trail across the city centre between 3pm and 8pm. The line-up is packed with interactive activities and live entertainment for families to enjoy, including aerial acrobatics, illuminated stilt walkers and the iconic living globe.
Councillor John McNicholas, Cabinet Member for Events at Coventry City Council, said:
“Last year’s Festival of Christmas was incredibly well received, so we’re thrilled to bring it back again. It promises a wonderful mix of performances, humour and traditional festive characters appearing throughout the city centre. It’s a great way for families and visitors to begin the winter season together.
“Our Christmas market and big wheel have become much‑loved features in Broadgate, and we’re pleased to see them return to our city centre once again.”
Coventry City Council will offer free parking on the run up to Christmas in Council run car parks. There will be the usual free after 3pm parking on a Wednesday starting on 25 November. This year there will also be free parking 10am to 10pm from Sunday 29 November.
The offer applies in the following car parks:
- Salt Lane Car Park
- West Orchards Car Park
- Bishop Street Car Park
- Gosford Street Car Park
- Grove Street Car Park
- Lower Ford Street Car Park
- Manor House Drive Car Park
- New Union Street Car Park
- Spon Street Car Park
- Whitefriars Street Car Park
- White Street Car Park.
Councillor Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, added:
“The return of the big wheel, Christmas market and Festival of Christmas signals the start of the festive period in Coventry. Our festive lights will be switched on in the city centre for those who are visiting to enjoy.
“I’m pleased we will once again be offering free car parking in our car parks – and this year we have moved to ensure the offer covers people who wish to shop or enjoy a night out.
“Our lights also support other important celebrations, including Remembrance Day and Diwali, with lights lit up along Foleshill Road and Stoney Stanton Road.”
Provided by The Giant Wheel Company, the wheel stands over 100ft tall, offering panoramic views across the city skyline.
The wheel and market will open to the public on Friday 13 November and will run daily until Sunday 3 January, excluding Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
The city’s Christmas programme is delivered by Coventry City Council in partnership with Visit Coventry.