Chester BID and Eastgate Square join forces to make Christmas extra special

Bookings are now open for Grotto on the Square as Chester BID and Eastgate Square unveil a magical new festive experience, featuring Santa's Enchanted Elevator and an all-new gingerbread-themed grotto in the heart of Chester.

Christmas in Chester is set to be more magical than ever this year, as Chester BID and Eastgate Square join forces to deliver Grotto on the Square, an enchanting festive experience that promises unforgettable memories for families from Friday 20 November until Christmas Eve.

The partnership will see a beautiful gingerbread-themed grotto take centre stage within the heart of the shopping centre, complemented by a programme of festive entertainment.

At the heart of this years’ experience is Santa's Enchanted Elevator, an immersive journey that transports families on a magical adventure through the North Pole before arriving at Santa's gingerbread home. As the elevator doors close, guests will be surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music and Christmas magic, building anticipation before a personal visit with Santa and a special gift for every child.

Designed to create a truly memorable festive tradition, Grotto on the Square combines storytelling, imagination and immersive experiences, offering families a magical journey from the moment they arrive.

Accessible SEN sessions will be available as well as rates for school groups, helping ensure that all children can enjoy the experience in a comfortable and welcoming environment.

For the past five years, Santa's Enchanted Grotto has become a Christmas tradition for many, welcoming thousands of families into Chester city centre and selling out year after year.

This year, by partnering with Eastgate Square to create Grotto on the Square, we're creating an even more magical festive attraction that strengthens Chester's Christmas offering, encourages more people to spend time in the city centre, and supports our fantastic businesses during one of the most important trading periods of the year. Collaboration like this is exactly what helps keep Chester one of the UK's leading festive destinations.

This has been an incredible year for Eastgate Square. From welcoming exciting new brands such as H beauty and Mango to delivering a fantastic programme of events and continued improvements across the centre, we've been focused on creating memorable experiences for everyone who visits.

Working alongside Chester BID has allowed us to take Grotto on the Square to the next level. We wanted the journey to Santa to feel just as magical as meeting him, and Santa's Enchanted Elevator brings that story to life in a truly immersive way. We can't wait to welcome families to Eastgate Square this Christmas.

Grotto on the Square will run from Friday 20 November until Thursday 24 December at Eastgate Square, Chester.

Bookings are now open at https://tr.ee/GrottoOnTheSquare