Thousands flocked to Lincoln Christmas Market for its 40th year running.
The milestone was no doubt a major draw for visitors as this year’s market seems to be booming, with queues for some stalls stretching down the road.
The Lincoln Christmas Market twitter account revealed today was ”one of the most popular Saturdays we have had on record.”
However, some stallholders shared their concerns about numbers.
Rodger from Lindum Lincoln Rotary Club said:“over the years, the numbers attending Lincoln Christmas Market have rapidly declined.
I remember 30-odd years ago when a quarter-of-a-million people came over the weekend, now it’s a lot less than that.”
Last year the number of stalls was reduced from 185 to 150 by City of Lincoln Council, to “maintain the quality of stalls, and to keep the reputation of the market.”
Neil Farrer from Crafted Pens comes every year to the Christmas Market. They said it was “very disappointing” to see the Market “significantly reduced.”
Organisers confirmed via social media this year’s market would have over 150 traders, and there has been no mention of a cap on the number of stalls.
Mr Farrer also told The Linc about the high costs of the stalls.
He said: “There are many traders not taking up the Thursday.
It’s quite simple why they haven’t, there are many other markets around, and this one is very expensive.
The council really needs to address what they do and how they do it.”
Stallholder David from Stoneglow Candles said: “I don’t think people can afford the stalls anymore.”
“We do okay, but obviously, expenses have gone higher and it’s very hard.”
UPDATE: There was a definite police presence at Saturday’s Market as the Castle Quarter was sectioned off for “crowd control”, according to one officer.
A one-way system still allowed for visitors to get round to the rest of the market.