Cornhill Market in Lincoln has been a hive of activity this summer, with thousands of families enjoying free entertainment, live music and creative community events. From live music and children’s activities to the Teenage Market showcasing talented young entrepreneurs, the market has been at the heart of the city’s summer celebrations.
Over 2,000 Visitors Enjoy Free Entertainment
Throughout the summer holidays, more than 2,000 young people and their families flocked to Cornhill Market to take part in free activities. Highlights included The Zone, which offered children a wide range of activities, and the Lincoln Live music festival, giving local bands and musicians the chance to perform in the city centre.
The most recent Teenage Market on 20th September was a huge success, attracting over 20 young traders between the ages of 11 and 18. Collectively, they made more than £1,600 in just one day, selling more than 400 products.
Founder of the Teenage Market, Joe Barratt, said the free climbing wall was a particular favourite with families.
“It was amazing to see the creative talents of young people from Lincoln and the wider area being showcased in City Square at Cornhill Market as part of our Teenage Market event.
“The feedback from our young traders has been really positive, with many of them commenting on the buzzing atmosphere in the square and the need to deliver more Teenage Market events to help support the development of their small businesses.
“The addition of the climbing wall in the centre of the square and performances throughout the day on our event stage really made it a day to remember. In fact, the event was so successful we’re holding a Christmas Teenage Market in Cornhill Market on 6th December, which is proving hugely popular with 15 stallholders signed up already. We look forward to working with Lincoln City Council, the Cornhill Market and wider stakeholders on this and similar events in the future.”
Building a Vibrant City Centre
Local businesses are already feeling the positive effects of Cornhill Market’s growing popularity. New stallholder Paul Lobley from The Interior Shack said the atmosphere has been fantastic.
“I’ve only been on the market for a short time, but the various events that have been held are clearly having a positive effect. It’s great to see the energy and I can certainly see the positives moving forward.”
The market is also preparing for an exciting October programme focused on sustainability. The Guildhall Street Takeover, hosted by Rock Retro Vintage Clothing, will bring together independent retailers and organisations to showcase greener business practices.
Lincoln’s Christmas Teenage Market
Following the success of September’s Teenage Market, preparations are already underway for the Christmas Teenage Market on Saturday, 6 December. With 15 stallholders already signed up, it promises to be another day filled with local talent, festive spirit and family fun.
Councillor Joshua Wells from City of Lincoln Council praised Cornhill Market’s impact.
“Cornhill Market has played a key role in supporting many activities and events this summer. It’s a place where entrepreneurs can test and grow their ideas with the benefit of a central city location. At the same time, the market provides free entertainment for families and opportunities for young people to engage with the high street as the retailers of the future.
“It’s exactly the kind of safe and inclusive space our city needs – ensuring Lincoln’s city centre remains a lively and welcoming destination for all.”
How to Get Involved
Applications are now open for young traders to take part in the Christmas Teenage Market. Aspiring entrepreneurs can sign up via theteenagemarket.co.uk to create a trader profile and apply.