New organiser of the Oxford Christmas Market has been announced

Oxford City Council has confirmed that Keston Events will organise this year's event, while Gala Lights will be responsible for the festive decorations in the city centre.

Keston Events is known for running successful events such as the Kingston Christmas Market in south west London and the Gun Wharf Quays Christmas Village in Portsmouth.

Oxford Christmas Market (Image: Oxford Mail)

It was one of several organisations that submitted a plan when the council called for expressions of interest earlier this year.

The company will transform Broad Street in a new way, moving away from the traditional market model and offering families, community groups, residents and visitors a variety of options throughout the festive season.

Details are currently being finalised and Keston Events is working with the council, businesses and stakeholders to ensure the success of the event.

Gala Lights has now been commissioned to decorate the city centre with Christmas lights.

Shoppers at the Oxford Christmas market (Image: Oxford Mail)

Due to the council's tight budget, the amount allocated for the festive lighting has not been increased, but “enhanced lighting” is expected.

Councillor Alex Hollingsworth, Cabinet Member for Business, Culture and an Inclusive Economy, said: “This is an excellent opportunity to breathe new life into Oxford’s Christmas celebrations.

“The new design of Broad Street offers an opportunity to take a different approach that we think will be attractive to visitors downtown, and the new Christmas lights will look great.”

“Our new partner Keston brings fresh and innovative ideas to the city and I look forward to seeing these ideas in action.”

Oxford Christmas Market (Image: Oxford Mail)

George Gregory, Managing Director of Keston Events, added: “Keston Events is honoured to have been given the opportunity to host the Christmas in Oxford event.”

“We are excited to kick off this year’s Christmas celebrations downtown.

“With new attractions, live entertainment and local produce, we will have everything we need to make Christmas in Oxford the best ever.

“Together with the City Council, we are convinced that this will establish Oxford as a major festival destination. We look forward to building on this position in the coming years and competing with other cities at home and abroad.

“The associated additional visitor numbers will also have a positive impact on the entire city, especially on the existing hotels, shops, bars and restaurants.”

The Council will work closely with Keston Events and Gala Lights to prepare a programme of celebratory events across the city.