Broadmead store transformed into 'winter wonderland' with string of festive events

Sparks in Broadmead has been 'transformed into a winter wonderland' for the festive season, and the unique department store has unveiled a schedule full of activities, workshops, and events this Christmas.

Located in the former home of Marks and Spencer, Sparks promises a vast array of local sustainable gifts 'for all the family'. Meanwhile, the 'winter wonderland' will also boast its own winter grotto, story festival, creative workshops, and even donation points for people to drop off gifts and food for those who need it most.

And, if you need a break from your Christmas shopping, the team at Sparks have announced that their cosy massage cabin will be offering a 'speedy shoppers massage' or beauty treatment. You'll also be able to grab a hot drink and vegan cake from the Busy V Bakery to be found in the heart of the store.

Here's what you can expect at Sparks this Christmas period...

The Festival Of Stories

Visitors to Sparks on November 30 can 'rediscover the joy of reading' during this celebration of storytelling. Showcasing written talent and creativity from Sparks' in-store book shop, Paper Tales, there promises to be a day packed full of live performances of poetry, spoken world, storytelling for a wide variety of audiences, and talks and workshops where participants can:

• Hone their poetry skills
• Learn the art of bookbinding
• Enjoy free craft activities
• And even dress in story themed fancy dress

Christmas workshops

Throughout the festive season, visitors will also be able to partake in a range of Christmas workshops - from making Christmas stockings, to upcycling old sweaters, and even making your own festive biscuits.

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The Global Gift Showcase

Sparks says it is "on a mission to encourage everyone to 'Gift Well' this year by considering the environment and your local communities when choosing where to buy thoughtful gifts for friends and family. The talented Sparks traders are fully stocked and ready to inspire you with environmentally friendly and locally sourced gift ideas.

"Explore over 100 independent traders on our ground floor, selling a huge choice of beautiful clothing, books, jewellery, stickers and plants."

The Global Gift Showcase on December 7 promises an array of more than 40 gift, craft, and food traders, representing more than 20 of Bristol's diverse communities. Shoppers are urged to support local artists and craftspeople here, all while finding Christmas gifts for loved ones, too.

The Repair Cafe

If you'd rather think outside the box when it comes to Christmas presents, The Repair Cafe allows visitors to surprise loved ones by repairing a favourite broken object. Re-thrindle, the in-store haberdashery, also allows people to mend an item of clothing.

Sparks Bristol will have regular mending workshops, repair cafes, exhibitions and independent shops opening seven days a week until Christmas, 10 - til 6pm (Monday to Saturday) and 11 - 5pm on Sundays.

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