Marking the run up to Christmas
Each Christmas there seems to be an influx of products that weren’t quite as prolific the year before – for example, Christmas Eve boxes which became on-trend last year. This year, the Advent Calendar seems to have made a big come back with everything from kid’s calendars filled with little toys; beauty calendars with make-up products; alcoholic calendars with miniature tipples;
and of course, trusty chocolates filling the supermarket shelves.
The word ‘Advent’ comes from the Latin phrase ‘coming toward’ – and for Christians, the period of Advent marks the lead up to the most important day of their year – the birth of Christ. The idea of physically marking Advent roots into the late 19th century when Lutherans chalked marks onto doors from December 1st to 24th. Some claim that the first hand-made advent calendar was created in Germany in the late 19th century for a child named Gerhard Lang, whose mother stuck 24 tiny sweets onto a square of cardboard for him to eat over the Advent period. Many of us will also remember post-war Advent Calendars, which thanks to rationing, entailed a colourful picture as the big surprise behind each door.
Check out what exhibitors will have to offer for Advent 2020 at Harrogate Christmas & Gift – register online today at www.harrogatefair.com
If you are a supplier – there is limited stand availability for the show – contact Simon Anslow on 01902 882280 or email: simon@harrogatefair.com for more information.
Outstanding achievement
Robert Anslow, managing director of Harrogate Christmas & Gift, was recognised for his exceptional contribution to the toy and nursery industry this week, receiving the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Progressive Preschool Awards in London. With a career spanning almost 50 years beginning in 1971 with his family-owned business Charlesworth Developments manufacturing nursery and toy products; Robert is also a director of the UK’s Baby Products Association; Harrogate International Nursery Fair; and vice president of the European Nursery Products Confederation (ENPC). Read the full story HERE.
Smells delicious
Heyland & Whittle launches a new range to celebrate the best of the winter season with three delicious scents to help
customers get into the Christmas spirit. Festive Spice with a mix of cinnamon, oranges and lemons with traditional smells of baking fruit cake to relax and invigorate; Frosted Wreath with a beautiful rush of sweet pine and notes of orange, sandalwood, seasonal berries and smoky balsam; whilst Mulled Wine is guaranteed to leave you feeling winter warmth hints of clove and ginger.
Whether it’s the cosiness of candlelight, the spice of mulled wine or the sparkle that everything takes on at Christmas, Heyland & Whittle has what you need to get into the spirit.
Visit Heyland & Whittle on Stand C3
Having a howl
As you probably experienced a week ago, Halloween is growing hugely in popularity and is no longer just about dressing up. 
With parties getting bigger and fancier, adults are looking for the finishing touches to help get their guests into the spirit of the occasion. Don’t miss the fantastic collection of literally everything Halloween presented by Premier Halloween from themed lights and lanterns to novelty lit items - get ready to party…fancy-style!
Visit Premier Halloween on Stand H2