Claim: Is the word ‘Christmas’ being cancelled? At the London Southbank ‘Winter Come Together’, stallholders are reportedly being urged not to say the word ‘Christmas’.
Conclusion: The claim that the word “Christmas” was “cancelled” at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival is inaccurate. While one stallholder at the “Winter Come Together” market reportedly chose not to use the word, the Southbank Centre itself continues to incorporate the word “Christmas” in the names and promotion of its events.
According to an article and video by GB News journalist Ben Leo, at the “Winter Come Together” market on Southbank, stallholders are reportedly being urged not to say the word ‘Christmas’.
GB News is a British outlet with a conservative political slant and has been criticized for biased coverage, misinformation, and sensationalism. According to Media Bias/Fact Check, it is considered an unreliable source. In Ben Leo’s report, one stallholder claimed the word “Christmas” was avoided for “religious reasons,” while another stated this was not the case.
However, the Southbank Centre includes events with the word “Christmas” in their titles and descriptions, such as the “Southbank Centre Winter Market,” described as “filled with Christmas spirit along the riverbank,” with activities like Christmas carols. The festival runs from November 21, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Additionally, Time Out London’s guide to the Southbank Winter Festival highlights the festive atmosphere and activities related to Christmas. Similar Christmas events have taken place across various parts of London. Finally, London Mayor Sadiq Khan publicly wished everyone Merry Christmas on December 18, 2024.
Conclusion:
The claim that the word “Christmas” was “cancelled” at the Southbank Centre’s Winter Festival is inaccurate. While one stallholder at the “Winter Come Together” market reportedly chose not to use the word, the Southbank Centre itself continues to incorporate the word “Christmas” in the names and promotion of its events.