Grimsby town centre came alive on Saturday as crowds gathered for the Great Grimsby Christmas Festival, a much-loved event that kicked off the festive season in spectacular style. The festival ran throughout the day into the evening, filling the town centre with live entertainment, artisan markets, and family-friendly activities across St James’ Square, Riverhead Square, Grimsby Minster and Freshney Place.
The highlight of the day was the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in St James’ Square, where two extraordinary local heroes – foster carers Betty and John Love – switched on the lights to signal the start of Grimsby’s festive season.
Betty and John have been fostering for North East Lincolnshire Council since 1987 and, over nearly four decades, have cared for more than 100 children, offering love and stability to those who need it most. Their dedication to giving children a safe and nurturing home all year round, and at Christmas, made them the perfect choice to lead this year’s celebrations.
Speaking to the crowd and supported by their family, Betty and John shared how touched they were to be asked to kick off Christmas in the place they both have always called home. When they first applied to be Foster Carers, they had a young family of their own, making fostering a decision they embraced together. Over the years, they have cared for children of all ages – from newborns to teenagers.
They both expressed how honoured they felt to be recognised in such a public way and urged others to consider fostering. “There’s always a need for foster carers locally,” they said. “If you’ve ever thought about it, just do it.”
Across the event the festival offered something for everyone, including:
- Main Stage at St James’ Square, featuring performances from Sam Simmons, Spencer Booth, Mak & Co, and six-piece band One 80, who closed the day with a high-energy Christmas party set.
- Community Stage at Riverhead Square, with festive favourites from All For One Choir, Grimsby Symphony Orchestra and Back to Brass.
- Merry Makers’ Market across St James’ Square and Riverhead Square, with over 30 artisan stalls selling handcrafted gifts, festive bakes and seasonal treats.
- Children’s activities at Grimsby Minster, including free face painting, crafts hosted by NELC’s fostering team, and a cosy “Baubles & Verses” corner for writing Christmas poems.
- Freshney Place Winter Wonderland, where families met Santa, his elves and The Grinch.
- Walkabout performers such as the Cheeky Elves and Silly Satsumas, plus roaming carol singers and the lively Santanarama Brass Band bringing festive music to the streets.
The day culminated in the Great Grimsby Parade through the town centre, with dazzling performers and lanterns lighting the way to the Christmas tree ceremony.
Councillor Margaret Cracknell, Portfolio Holder for Children and Education, said:
“This event was all about families and children coming together to celebrate the magic of Christmas. Seeing so many smiles enjoying all that was on offer today was wonderful.
“Betty and John are shining examples of what it means to give selflessly. Their decades of dedication to fostering have changed countless lives, and it was lovely to see them recognised and celebrated in the community.
Every one of our foster carers is remarkable. They open their hearts and homes to children who need love and stability, and we want them to feel proud and valued every single day.”
This year’s festival was funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (#UKSPF) and supported by generous sponsors Ørsted, Keepmoat and GMI Construction Group. The event was managed by Swans Events.
Thinking about fostering?
North East Lincolnshire Council is always looking for people who can offer a safe and loving home. To find out more, visit www.nelincs.gov.uk/fostering.
Share this article