Traders have expressed their disappointment after being informed that a much anticipated Craigavon-based Twilight Market has been unexpectantly cancelled.
The artisan markets were due to be held for three days from November 21 – 23 at Rushmere Shopping Centre.
Rushmere gained massive public support last year for stepping in to host their own Twilight Markets after ABC Council axed the event from their festive programme at the last minute.
The move was well received by shoppers and sellers alike and saw hundreds descend on the shopping centre car park to soak up the Christmas spirit.
And, in continuation of their inaugural success, the centre advertised the return of their markets for the 2025 Christmas period, in July of this year.
Applications were then submitted by interested traders from July through to August with deposits taken to secure the bookings.
However, one such vendor has now contacted Armagh I to express their disappointment after receiving an email from BNL Productions – the event management company acting on behalf of the centre – advising that the markets would now be cancelled… with just over a week to go.
The trader – who asked to remain anonymous – explained that many people had spent money on signage, packaging and product to prepare for the rush, adding: “It’s really unfortunate as traders have spent a lot of money on this market as expected it to be busy.”
The email received by the trader from BNL Productions explained that earlier that day (November 10) the “landlords/owners of Rushmere” had contacted us to say that, “after serious reflection and evaluation, they have decided that they have no choice but to cancel the event”.
Further to the addition of a new access road they added that there has been “a significant amount of negative feedback surrounding car parking and general access”.
The announcement continued: “As next week marks a peak seasonal period for them, they’ve expressed concern that going ahead with the Twilight Market could further impact both the shopping centre’s customers and the participating traders. For that reason, they’ve made the difficult decision to cancel the market in full.
“We completely understand how disappointing and frustrating this will be for you. We know that many of you have already invested time, effort, and money into preparing for this event — from completing the application process to producing or purchasing stock — and we do not underestimate how much of an inconvenience this will cause.
“Please know that this decision was entirely unpredicted and not something BNL Productions had any control over. Like you, we were genuinely excited about what promised to be a vibrant, festive event and had every confidence it would be a success.
“The landlords have asked us to make it clear that this was their decision, and they have expressed deep regret in having to take this step.
“From our side, we want to sincerely echo that sentiment. We value the relationship we’ve built with our traders over the years and are genuinely sorry to be sharing such disappointing news. It’s never something we would wish to happen, and we fully share in your frustration.”
Rushmere have assured BNL Productions that they are keen to honour all approved trader applications at a future market event – likely in Spring 2026 – where traders booked onto the Twilight Markets will be automatically offered a spot without needing to reapply.
Refunds will also be issued for all deposits paid towards securing market stalls, which can be obtained by contacting the centre.
