By Dave Gudgeon

Last updated 10:13, Friday, 28 November 2008

FIFTY stalls from around the world will be the centrepiece of Carlisle’s outdoor Christmas market which opens for business next week.

Come on down: The event runs from Wednesday, December 3 to Sunday, December 7 in Carlisle city centre

The event runs from Wednesday, December 3 to Sunday, December 7 in the city centre.

Shoppers can sample culinary and handcrafted goods from as far afield as Australia, India and China as well as many European countries.

The Christmas market is building on the success of previous continental markets which have attracted thousands of visitors to the city.

It will be open late each day, except on the Sunday, and will remain open until 9pm for Thursday late night shopping.

Made In Cumbria will join the market between Wednesday and Saturday and each day will see different Made In Cumbria traders in place.

The market will operate alongside the city’s Victorian Market Hall, which offers a wide range of traditional, local traders.

Mike Mitchelson, leader of Carlisle City Council, said: “This year, with support from our new sponsor Sky Movies, we will be providing a packed Christmas city programme.

“The Christmas market is a valuable part of the programme and will help us compete in the same league as other established Christmas market destinations.

“It will help raise the profile of the city as an attractive visitor destination and will also provide another popular event for residents.”

Sky Movies are the major sponsor for this year’s dazzling seasonal illumination of the city and forthcoming events in the run-up to Christmas.

Their support has ensured that all 2,400 light bulbs, which form part of the city centre display, are energy saving LEDs, demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the environment.

Their support also enhances Carlisle’s bid to be the ultimate ‘Christmas City’ and draw in crowds from far and wide to enjoy and admire the stunning display of lights and other activities which will be going on in the run-up to Christmas.

Their support has also helped to illuminate one of the city’s main landmarks – Carlisle Castle – which is now adorned with striking interchangeable coloured lights.

Organised by the city council, the city’s decorations also include a sparkling 10m-tall tree, illuminations around key city landmarks, including the Citadel, and a traditional nativity scene in the city centre.

The city council has also attracted sponsorship and support from Cumbria County Council and The Lanes shopping centre.