Experience the Manchester Christmas Markets

When the time comes to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, a trip to Manchester can fill you with festive cheer (as well as copious amounts of mince pies and mulled wine). They’re also a great place to go on the hunt for gifts and decorations, or simply to immerse yourself in the fun and frivolities that come during the Christmas season.

There are various locations across the city that host Christmas markets, so you have plenty of places to visit if you’re in the mood to feel jolly and bright. In this article, we’ll let you know about some of our favourites so you can have a very merry Christmas in Manchester. 

When do the Manchester Christmas Markets open?

The Manchester Christmas Markets are usually open from mid-November until Christmas Eve. The dates can vary year to year, so it’s always worth checking the exact dates if you’re headed into the city specifically to enjoy the festivities.

Often, some of the attractions, such as the ice rink, can stay open beyond the Christmas markets, so you can enjoy them for a little bit longer into the new year.

Do you need tickets?

No, you don’t need tickets to visit the Manchester Christmas markets. They’re free to enter so you can wander around, soak in the atmosphere, choose to buy gifts or food and drink, and take part in the activities if you like.

There are usually attractions and experiences that require a fee to enjoy, such as the ice rink or children’s rides.

Where are the stalls located in the city centre?

There are plenty of areas around the city centre that are home to stalls during the Manchester Christmas markets. Here are some of the areas you should check out during your visit:

• Albert Square: Right in front of the Town Hall you’ll find the heart of the markets, known for having an iconic festive centrepiece and loads of stalls selling food, drinks and gifts.
• St Ann’s Square: In St Ann’s Square you’ll be spoilt for choice with many stalls having that traditional German Christmas market feel.
• King Street: If you’re feeling hungry, head to King Street for a range of stalls offering international food.
• Cathedral Gardens: For a fun family atmosphere, Cathedral Gardens is home to an ice rink and children’s funfair, as well as stalls selling food and gifts.
• Exchange Square: Close to the Arndale Shopping Centre, Exchange Square is a great spot to spoil yourself at the food stalls and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
• New Cathedral Street: A premium spot at the Manchester Christmas market, New Cathedral Street is where you’ll find luxury gifts and items and boutique clothing.

What can you expect to see at the Manchester Christmas markets?

Christmas in Manchester is such a fantastic time, with an exciting and welcoming atmosphere suitable for families, groups of friends and couples looking for a way to spend date night.

If you’re heading into Manchester during the festive period, here’s what you can expect to see:

• Traditional wooden stalls, selling everything from tasty treats to handmade gifts
• A huge selection of food and drink, including Christmas classics, beer, mulled wine, sweets and international dishes
• Lots of festive entertainment, such as choirs, carolers, musicians, street performers and – of course – Santa himself
• A ton of incredible lights and decorations, illuminating the city in an impressive display of colour
• Family-friendly attractions, such as rides, an ice rink, Santa’s Grotto and more

Other events in Manchester this Christmas

There’s way more than just the markets if you’re looking for something to do in Manchester this Christmas. Here’s just a few of our favourites: 

• Winter Funland at the BEC Arena, a family event with rides, attractions, a circus show and loads festive foods
• Land of Lights at Gullivers Warrington lets you explore an incredible illuminated fantasy world
• The city’s theatres regularly host Christmas performances, including musicals, plays and choirs
• Every Christmas Tatton Park transforms into a Christmas wonderland, with light trails, events and fabulous decorations
• Head to Manchester Cathedral to enjoy a Christmas Concert, with plenty of performances throughout the season

Learn more about our flats in central Manchester.

Manchester is a brilliant city to visit if you’re looking for some Christmas cheer. But, the city has so much more to offer throughout the year, making it a fantastic place to call home.

If you’d like to experience life in Manchester for yourself, UNCLE has a range of fully-serviced flats to help you feel at home right away. Learn more about our flats in central Manchester.