“We’re excited to play our part” – says Delapré Abbey’s deputy chief executive Amanda Nicols-Polinska

Delapré Abbey is hosting businesses in eight chalet-style cabins and putting on cocktail masterclasses on the Market Square as part of the upcoming WinterFest in Northampton town centre.

The Christmas lights switch on in Northampton town centre on Saturday November 21 marks the start of WinterFest, a programme of festive events aiming to drive footfall and spend, support local businesses, and create memorable experiences for residents and visitors.

This is being delivered by West Northamptonshire Council alongside principal partner Northampton Town Council, together with Northampton BID, Delapré Abbey, the Grosvenor Centre and Muse.

Delapré Abbey is providing eight winter-themed, chalet-style cabins that will host businesses from Friday to Sunday every weekend from November 27 until January 3. | Delapré Abbey

placeholder image — Delapré Abbey is providing eight winter-themed, chalet-style cabins that will host businesses from Friday to Sunday every weekend from November 27 until January 3. | Delapré Abbey

Delapré Abbey’s deputy chief executive Amanda Nicols-Polinska spoke to the Chronicle & Echo about their involvement in bringing WinterFest to life.

“We’re excited to be involved in West Northamptonshire’s WinterFest, bringing together communities, local organisations and businesses to celebrate everything that makes our area so special at this time of year,” said Amanda.

“What makes WinterFest special is seeing so many organisations pulling together to create a fantastic month of festive celebrations for everyone to enjoy.

“It’s about working collaboratively to bring some festive magic to our communities, creating opportunities for families and friends to come together, make wonderful memories and enjoy these events in the true spirit in which they are intended.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate local pride, collaboration and the spirit of the season, and we’re excited to play our part.”

Delapré Abbey is providing eight winter-themed, chalet-style cabins that will host businesses from Friday to Sunday every weekend from November 27 until January 3. The finalised list of small and local businesses is in the process of being confirmed, and they will be open from 10am until 6pm.

The cabins are in the process of being built but have not yet been decorated in the gingerbread theme, with the vision being brought to life by carpentry and electrical students at Northampton College.

The finalised list of small and local businesses occupying the cabins is in the process of being confirmed, and they will be open from 10am until 6pm over the course of each weekend. | Delapré Abbey

Delapré Abbey is also putting on a light installation, which anyone is welcome to use for photo opportunities. This is a sneak peek of the well-renowned Winter Light Trail hosted at the Abbey during the festive season.

Among the masterclasses that Delapré Abbey is putting on in one of the marquees on the Market Square is two cocktail-making classes at 1pm and 3pm on Sunday, December 6. This costs £15 per person and is open to anyone over the age of 18.

These will be hosted by Hibiscus Fine Dining’s deputy restaurant manager Cara, who will demonstrate how to create two delicious Christmas-inspired cocktails. The first is ‘The Gingerbread’, a creamy holiday spiced dessert cocktail.

The second is a ‘White Christmas Colada’, which is a festive twist on the summer holiday classic featuring lime and coconut.

“We work with West Northamptonshire Council on a number of different activities throughout the year,” said Amanda. “WinterFest has evolved into something really lovely for the community.

“This time of year is a really special time for everyone to come together and enjoy moments like this. The Market Square being an active space and everyone pulling together is what Christmas is all about.”