Local bands are being invited to play at a big birthday bash for the Covered Market.

The historic market is marking 250 years of continuous trading since it first opened in 1774.

There will be a free party inside the market on Friday, September 13 at 7.30pm.

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Alex Hollingsworth, cabinet member for business, culture and an inclusive economy, said: "We couldn’t let this special year go by without a big party for everyone to come together and celebrate all the amazing people and moments that make the market so special. 

"We can't wait to see you there.” 

Actors from Oxford People's Theatre will be strolling the avenues in period costume and leading a special market trail. 

Local musicians will perform, reflecting evolving music styles since the market began.   

These include early music performer Muses Kiss who has been commissioned to craft a set to reflect the instruments that would have been played at around the time of the market's opening in 1774.  

(Image: Ed Nix) Local folk band Milady Clare’s Musicke will perform popular early folk songs and dances. 

And the Steph Pirrie Trio will move into jazz from the 1920s and 1930s alongside Lindy Hop taster sessions run by Oxford Lindy Hoppers.  

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There will be also be a photobooth hosted by local photographer Jason Fyrefly. 

Multi-media artist Charlie Henry, who created the Un-Covered Market audio tour, will be capturing anecdotes and stories from guests which will be added to the market’s archive which is soon to be launched on the Covered Market’s website.  

And local historian Malcolm Graham will lead two interactive history tours of the market.  

(Image: Ed Nix) In 1771, the Oxford Improvement Act was passed and plans for a covered city market were proposed to bring street traders under one roof and improve public health.

A market committee was established and John Gwynn, the architect for Magdalen Bridge, was appointed to design the market.

In winter 1774, the market officially opened in a way that we could recognise today.

In the 1840s, there was a partial expansion and the market transformed into its current form, with Market Street entrances added.

Last year, a £6.8m package to revitalise the attraction was approved by city council leaders.

Market Street has been made more pedestrian-friendly with extra seating and cycle racks.

Tickets for the party are free but they must be booked in advance and are limited to two per booking. You can find ticket information here: wegottickets.com/event/627790  

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About the author 

Andy is the Trade and Tourism reporter for the Oxford Mail and you can sign up to his newsletters for free here. 

He joined the team more than 20 years ago and he covers community news across Oxfordshire.

His Trade and Tourism newsletter is released every Saturday morning. 

You can also read his weekly Traffic and Transport newsletter.