THE first images of a new two-storey "ski lodge" bar have been revealed as preparations for this year's Christmas Festival begin.
Organisers have pledged to “create a genuine buzz in the city” with the event, which will be markedly different from last year's.
It will be running from Friday, November 18, until Christmas Eve.
The two-storey Après Ski Bar will have seating for 180 people and a heated outside terrace.
It will be open seven days a week until late for the duration of the festival.
It will be in St Peter’s Plaza, looking across the Christmas Market and the big wheel.
Festival organiser and managing director of E3 Events David Hill said: “It's the perfect spot to soak up the Christmas cheer where you can enjoy a festive tipple or two in this ski lodge-themed bar.
“It’s going to be very special, with a selection of festive drinks and live entertainment throughout the day.
“There will be many beers, mulled wine, hot chocolates and other festive drinks, which you can enjoy while being entertained by a whole host of local artists and performers.
“You can also book the bar for your Christmas party, team night out or Christmas drinks with friends.”
The inaugural market and festival last year faced criticism after being plagued by a series of issues and complaints over noise and mess.
David said this year's event will not feature a fairground, there will be fewer bars, more retail stands and a smaller big wheel.
The event is being moved from Old Steine and Valley Gardens to near St Peter’s Church.
Among the main attractions will be a traditional European-style Christmas market.
E3 is partnering with a German company which is experienced in providing Christmas markets in Hyde Park and Edinburgh.
There will also be a traditional Christmas Grotto with Father Christmas and Snow Queen.
This year will be E3's third attempt at staging Aladdin at the Brighton Centre after 2020 and 2021 were both cancelled due to Covid. It will be showing from December 22 to 27.
The Elves will also be returning with their new show The Elf Express and there will be a live talent show called Sussex Superstars. It will have five heats during the festival and a grand final in February 2023.
David said: "My team has worked so hard to create what we think will be a winning line-up this Christmas.
“We want to show the city, the county and surrounding areas that 'Brighton does Christmas'.
"We also want to demonstrate our commitment to the local community and give back to people in need.
"This is why all money raised for charity during this year's festival will be donated to The Focus Foundation, a new Sussex-based charity that will be providing a range of grants to community initiatives and smaller charities within the city.”
Visit Brighton Christmas Festival website for more information.
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