It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas at Radcliffe Market

Manchester’s big Christmas Markets are definitely worth a visit. But there’s only so many times you want to be stuck in the heaving crowds or have your mulled wine spilt over your new coat.

So it’s good to know there are lots of other local markets going on around Greater Manchester.

Radcliffe Market has seen some huge changes over the last year. It’s gone from a dowdy hall to a thriving market place thanks to a focused team of volunteers who have refurbished and regenerated. Over the last 12 months there has been lots more people visiting with upto 400 people attending Friday Food Nights each week.

It’s offering an escape for anyone who likes things to be a bit less busy when they are doing their shopping and has announced a schedule of festive events in the run-up to Christmas Day.

As well as a variety of stalls and goodies on offer, the Christmas schedule also sees live music, entertainment, workshops and a visit from the main man himself – Santa.

He’ll be taking time out of his busy schedule to be in Radcliffe every Saturday and Sunday afternoon until Christmas. Tickets cost just £10 you can have a meet-and-greet, take part in fun activities and snap a selfie with the big man and his elves.

There’s festive music a-plenty with Carols and Cake on Saturday 14th December, Contemporary Carol Singing and a visit from the Manchester Pipe Band on Sunday 15th December, and the Encore Children’s Choir on Monday 23rd December.

If Christmas crafts are more your thing, Imagination Station returns with Christmas Eve box making on Monday 23rd December.

A bit of a foodie? Regular traders such as Luisa’s Pizza and Mogul will still be taking pride of place and there’s also a special Christmas food market on Saturday 21st December where you can stock up on any last minute treats.

For a final bit of Christmas cheer there are screenings of Elf on Monday 23rd December at 3pm and 7pm and that’s guaranteed to set the Christmas cheer-ometer through the roof.

You can also stock up on fresh meat, fish, eggs, fruit and get some treats for your four legged friend at Goody Paws.

Radcliffe Market is also a dog-friendly zone so dig out your pooch’s most festive jumper and get yourself down to the town centre and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

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