For 40 years, the Lincoln Christmas Market has been a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike, bringing a festive spirit to the historic city of Lincoln. This beloved event has been cancelled, leaving many feeling a sense of loss and nostalgia for the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and unique gifts that could be found at the market. 

The Paper Starlights stall has been a fixture at the market for 27 years.

Some of our loyal customers reached out to share their memories and reflections on the market and what it meant to them. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and remember the magic of the Lincoln Christmas Market:

“The first time we took our daughter to the market she was only 4 months old and was captivated by these, we bought one for her bedroom. She’s 15 now and we live 2 mins walk from the market, she loved going there with her friends but alas no more” - Amanda Drury

Photo by matthew Feeney on Unsplash

"Every year for the past 20/30 years I have been to Lincoln market I have walked down the slope coming from the castle and admired your stall it is such a welcome treat to the eyes, especially if it’s getting dark to see those beautiful stars hanging and looking beautiful! For that I thank you! Years ago I bought one for my daughter who was about 19 at the time and she was enchanted...This year we stopped to talk with you and reminisce. Of course my daughter bought one for herself and it was also my chance to get one for me.

Thank you so much for the memories, the fun and the beauty of your lights. May you have a lovely Christmas snd many more years of successful selling."

- Via email, Mandy Thorogood, 2022.

“My bro-in-law brought a couple [stars] on his first visit in 2012. We went again for the next two years, he loved the market, stalls, beer and food. Now lives in the Arizona and can't believe its going” - Andy Robinson

"I visit your lovely stall at the market every year, in fact I’ve still got my latest star in my lounge, really going to miss you this year, it just won’t be the same without the market" - Joannah, via Instagram.

"Hi, I just bought a star paperlight from you at Lincoln Christmas Market. I was so excited when I saw your stall as I'd bought one from you (as I found out) 12 years before and I loved it. It was an orange and red one and it gave off such a lovely glow.  I loved it so much that after the Christmas period I used it in my bedroom as the lamp shade for 8 years. They are so well made and I think I got a bargain when I bought it. I can't wait to put this one up, I wonder if this one will last as long? I hope so." - Via email, Tracey Roberts, 2022.

Photo by matthew Feeney on Unsplash

"Oh I love these star lights. I’ve been meaning to email them our story as probably 25 years ago I went to the market with my Mum and I begged her for one. I had it in my bedroom for years. And Erin did the same to me at last years market so now both of the girls have one in their bedrooms” - Lucy Blow

As we look back on the memories and reflections shared by our loyal customers, it's clear that the Lincoln Christmas Market was more than just a shopping event - it was a celebration of community, tradition, and the joy of the festive season.

Though the market may no longer be taking place, we can hold onto the memories and the spirit it brought to Lincoln for 40 wonderful years. Let's cherish the memories we have and look forward to creating new traditions and memories in the years to come.

Read Director of Paper Starlights, Andy Jupp's letter of valediction to Lincoln Christmas Market