CHARTER MARKET TO BE BOOSTED BY EVENTS PROGRAMME AND OTHER INITIATIVES

An action-packed events programme is among a number of exciting initiatives to make St Albans Charter Market a greater attraction for the entire community.

Live music, theatrical performances, performing arts and a fashion show are among the free activities that will be held to boost visitor numbers and add to the vibrant atmosphere.

The number of traders working at the market has been rising steadily on Saturdays following efforts to improve its appeal.

Last month, the Saturday average was 77 traders compared to 68 in February 2022 – a 13% increase. The rise comes after St Albans City and District Council, which runs the twice-weekly market, delivered a number of new initiatives.

These include efforts to attract new entrepreneurs and a loan offer to established traders of a new gazebo in St Albans colours of blue and yellow.

New traders include Matt Mager Beats & Beigels and zero waste grocer Sanjay, The Fruit and Veg Man, who turns all unsold food into relishes, sauces or compost.

Work on attracting other traders to broaden the market’s appeal continue while new Charter Market signage is to be strategically placed on stalls.

The new all-weather gazebos in uniform colours are already being distributed to traders with thirty expected to be in place by Easter.

These loans also support traders financially by saving them the significant cost of replacing their existing equipment.

Other initiatives include allocating more free space to local charities, community groups and non-profit organisations so they can promote their good causes.

A Valentine’s Market held on the run-up to February 14th received the highest trader numbers of the year so far, beaten recently only be the fortnight leading up to Christmas.

Supported by St Albans BID, it featured the Jupiter Singers, buskers singing love songs and seasonallythemed products and gift ideas from traders, all promoted on the market’s social media channels. Further themed days are planned throughout the year. The events programme includes a roving dinosaur puppet on Saturday 25 March to publicise Dinosaur World Live at the Alban Arena.

There will be a performance of School of Rock by St Albans Musical Theatre Company on Saturday 8 April and some live theatre from Ovo Theatre on Saturday 6 May.

A fashion show, featuring pre-loved clothes and accessories, will take place on Saturday 13 May, organised by Hope House and St Albans Action for Homeless.

Community groups, charities or community-orientated businesses interested in providing entertainment or promoting a good cause at the market will find more information here: www.stalbans.gov.uk/st-albans-market-activities-andevents

You can stay connected with the Charter Market on Facebook: www.facebook.com/stalbansmarket