Sunderland’s historic Mackie’s Corner reveals plans for a festive-inspired event, sponsored by Kirtley Co.
Families and Christmas-lovers in Sunderland can enjoy a day of festive fun and shopping as Mackie’s Corner opens its doors on December 2nd from 12pm-4pm as part of Small Business Saturday.
Sponsored by Kirtley Co, the event will see the historic Sunderland landmark transform into a magical venue for one day only, made special with traditional festive decorations, including an 80-metre garland supplied by TCL Christmas Shop, based in Seaham.
Visitors of all ages are welcome and those who stop by will be given the chance to enjoy several festive treats, from complimentary drinks and hot chocolate to exciting shopping offers and discounts.
As well as a free chocolate gift from Santa, all children will be invited to sing and dance with the man himself and his elves, thanks to Evoke Entertainment, who will be putting on a fun-filled show from 1-3pm.
Adults, meanwhile, will be able to shop exclusive seasonal offers from a number of independent businesses within Mackie’s Corner, all of whom will be decorating their shops especially for the occasion.
Businesses such as Bou-chique, Master Debonair, Fat Unicorn, The Sweet Petite and The Black Door Hairdressing will be involved on the day, on hand to kick-start visitors’ Christmas shopping and shine a light on their products and services for Small Business Saturday.
The Art Room will also be welcoming shoppers in search of children’s gifts, while North East social media and marketing agency, The Social Type, will be on site to film the day’s activities.
By attending the merriment-packed event, visitors will be supporting some of Sunderland’s best-loved independent businesses on Small Business Saturday – a day designed to highlight small business success and encourage consumers to ‘shop local’ to help those in their communities.
“We are so looking forward to opening the doors of Mackie’s Corner and welcoming families and Christmas shoppers to this fantastic festive event,” said Alex Kirtley, MD of Kirtley Co.
“Christmas can be an expensive time of year for lots of people these days, so it’s great to be able to offer an event like this to the families of Sunderland to enjoy.
“All the business – including those on the upper levels of Mackie’s Corner – have clubbed together to pay for the treats for the children, in hopes of making it as magical as possible and we know there will be a real sense of community in the air all day.”
Donna Arkley, owner of Bou-chique, added: “We love the Christmas events here at Mackie’s Corner – each year they get bigger and better – and we can’t wait to be involved once again,” says Donna Arkley, owner of Bou-chique.
“Our shop will be buzzing with excitement and Christmas spirit. We always offer a festive special discount on the day, as well as tasty treats, so we hope to see lots of people and look forward to giving them a big, warm welcome and help them get in the mood for Christmas.”
Kerry Cook, owner of The Art Room, said: “Shoppers who pay us a visit can expect workshop gift vouchers and festive experiences to buy, plus specialist art materials, art books and hampers filled with must-have art materials. It’s going to be a very creative 2024!”
Amanda Martin, owner of Fat Unicorn deli, said: “Visitors who stop by Fat Unicorn can enjoy delicious festive food and drink – including complimentary mulled wine, paired with artisan cheese and charcuterie delights – to get them in the Christmas spirit. We look forward to welcoming everyone on what will be a fantastic day for local people and businesses.”
Mackie’s Corner will be open from 12-4pm on Saturday 2nd December. Free entry.
