Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve had the honour of attending a number of events around Bishopsgate, as we mark the start of the festive season!
Last week, I joined the Eastern City Business Improvement District (EC BID) team as part of their Tinsel Trail festive programme for the unveiling of MOSAIC 2023 by artist Arnaud Lapierre, located outside of the Pan Pacific Hotel at One Bishopsgate Plaza.
MOSAIC 2023 is a sculpture which reinvents the traditional Christmas tree in a sustainable and modern vision. The tree is fitted with mirrored cubes arranged in a manner which evokes the natural geometry of a pine cone. It was great to chat to Arnaud about his creative process and as I pass by the sculpture each day, it’s been fascinating to see how its effect changes in different weather cycles.
The event encapsulated the feeling of Christmas with carols sung by Music in Offices, some festive refreshments and a speech from the EC BID Chair, Nick Carty, highlighted the significance of cultural installations in revitalising the City. He emphasised that these installations play a crucial role, especially during this time of the year, as they help attract new audiences. By supporting our world-class hospitality, leisure, retail, and food and beverage businesses, these cultural installations contribute to the ongoing success of our city.
The installation will remain at Bishopsgate Plaza until 5th January 2024, so do take a look.
I also joined the newly elected Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman Michael Mainelli, at the official Christmas Tree lights switch on at Leadenhall Market, which was absolutely packed. The London Youth Choir was performing a medley of carols and all of the surrounding businesses were open for trade. We even managed to find a warm mulled wine, which was lovely.
As I’ve explained in previous posts, there is so much happening in Bishopsgate and around the City of London over the next few weeks, so do come and enjoy these events with friends, family and colleagues and support our local businesses. The full list of events can be found at our Destination City website or at the EC BID website or you can read about the range of religious services taking place at St. Botolph Without Church here.
The annual Bishopsgate Carol Service will take place at St. Botolph Without on Thursday 14 December at 1.10pm. The St Botolph’s Choir and the Choir of The Coopers’ Company and Coborn School will be joining forces to make joyful music for the popular traditional carol service. Everyone is welcome to attend the service and to stay for traditional seasonal refreshments afterwards, so bring your colleagues and friends!
Merry Christmas all…!
