'Arctic Village' to transform Weighbridge into winter wonderland

Saturday 08 October 2016

Halloween might be just around the corner, but Airtel-Vodafone already has its sights set on Christmas, with big plans to bring an ‘Arctic Village’ to the Weighbridge.

Supported by the Parish of St Helier and the Jersey Development Company, the Arctic Village aims to completely transform the Weighbridge area in the 6-week Fête de Noué period into a winter wonderland replete with an ice rink, german eaterie, Santa’s grotto and a giant snow globe.

Following the format of previous Fête de Noué celebrations, gift buyers will be able to shop at the village’s 14 chalets offering handmade gifts and crafts - all to the tune of Christmas melodies provided by the live stage.

Children’s entertainment will also be on offer, while businesses are invited to use the space for team building and corporate nights. Curling, pretend ice hockey and broom ball are just some of the options - no skates needed.

And the Arctic Village team have their sights set on New Year too, having organised the biggest New Year’s Eve party to ever be held at the Weighbridge.

Constable of St Helier Simon Crowcroft said that this year’s Fête de Noué should be a “memorable experience”. “The events and festive decorations at the Weighbridge always form an important part of St Helier's vibrant Christmas atmosphere and this year is no exception. The Arctic Village will be appreciated by both locals and visitors of all ages and will complement the efforts being made throughout the town by the retail and hospitality sectors,” he said.

Both Mark Cox, Chamber of Commerce, and David Elliott of the Retail Development Group - both supporting the event - welcomed the 30 metre x 20 metre ice rink’s central location due to its retail benefits.

Mr Elliott commented: “A number of retailers felt that the relocation of the Ice Rink away from the town centre effectively ‘relocated' a number of their customers too. A town centre based ice rink attracts both skaters and spectators and very effectively adds to the seasonal atmosphere at this crucially important time of the year for retailers. Retail Theatre is very important in attracting customers into Town, the Ice Rink is a good example of this.”

The Airtel-Vodafone Arctic Village is free entry and will be open every day except Christmas Day. Ice skating and New Year’s Eve tickets can be purchased online. 

Pic Credit: JEP