Last updated 05:19, Friday, 28 November 2008

CARLISLE’S reputation as the Christmas city is undoubtedly endorsed and enhanced by its varied programme of seasonal events and activities.

The outdoor Christmas market is one of those special events. Evolving from the success of warmly received continental markets, it is again likely to draw thousands of visitors to the city centre and will help create a festive atmosphere in the traditionally busy run-up to the Christmas holiday. Fifty stalls from around the world will form the centrepiece of this year’s market, when it opens for business next week.

Shoppers will be able to sample culinary and handcrafted goods from as far afield as Australia, India and China as well as from many European countries. Made In Cumbria will also join the market between Wednesday and Saturday and each day will see different Cumbrian traders in place with their local and regional produce and crafts.

There is no doubt that the outdoor market has become something of a feature of Carlisle’s popular Christmas experience. But it is also true that more recently the event hasn’t always lived up to its artisanal promise.

Foodstuffs, crafts and specialities from other countries built the popularity of the continental markets that were distinguished by their appealing ethnic originality. But there was nothing too special or exotic about the tat that threatened to overwhelm the event last year.

Plastic handbags, novelty slippers, Wellington boots, T-shirts and cheap toys tended to point more towards opportunist boot sale or bargain basement clearance than continental market. City stores and shops also work hard to contribute a great deal to Carlisle’s famous festive appeal. And it isn’t too surprising that some feel frustrated by promise of an added value attraction which turns out to be a week-long, hot dog-and-onions distraction from their own businesses, during the most important trading period of their year.