A complete guide to Manchester Christmas Markets 2024

This year, Manchester proudly reclaims its title as the UK’s ‘Capital of Christmas,’ marking 26 years since the city’s very first Christmas market lit up the streets back in 1998.

Over the past quarter of a century, these markets have become a beloved tradition, drawing in thousands of locals and visitors alike to savour the festive magic, shop for unique treasures, and indulge in seasonal treats.

As the countdown to Christmas begins, we’re excited to reveal what’s in store for this year’s celebration—so, without further ado, let the festivities begin!

Looking for some awesome things to do in Manchester this Christmas? Check out our amazing guide by clicking here

26 Years of Manchester’s Christmas Market

As the nights grow longer and a crisp chill creeps into the air, the anticipation for Christmas in Manchester builds once again.

In just a few short weeks, the city will transform into a winter wonderland with the return of the beloved Manchester Christmas Markets.

Now in their 26th year, these markets have become a Christmas tradition for locals and visitors alike, earning their place as one of the most magical festive experiences in the UK.

When do Manchester Christmas markets begin?

Set to open on November 8th, Manchester will kick off its holiday celebrations on what the city lovingly dubs Festive Friday.

Manchester Christmas Markets 2024

From that day, the city will sparkle for six glorious weeks, welcoming shoppers, foodies, and families to indulge in the season’s offerings until December 22nd.

Manchester’s Christmas magic

This year’s markets are spread across nine locations, with more than 200 wooden chalet stalls popping up around Manchester’s city centre.

Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, hand-crafted decorations, or the perfect winter coat, you’ll find it here.

From King Street West to Piccadilly Gardens, these stalls create a festive maze for visitors to wander through, each corner offering new surprises.

The intoxicating smells of freshly grilled bratwurst, warm pretzels, and sweet waffles will draw you in, while the hot cups of spiced glühwein and festive beers are sure to keep you warm.

The city’s streets will be awash with festive lights, setting the perfect backdrop for festive strolls and Instagram-worthy selfies.

Christmas lights trail

A Christmas lights trail will lead you through iconic sites like St Peter’s Square, where Santa himself will oversee the festivities from high above.

Walk through giant illuminated baubles, and don’t miss the Manchester bee—lit up and proud, as always—reminding us of the city’s resilience and community spirit.

For those looking to embrace the holiday spirit through activity, Skate Manchester will return to Cathedral Gardens with its twinkling, covered ice rink.

Whether you’re gracefully gliding or hilariously wobbling, the rink promises a magical skating experience. Open from November 8th to January 1st, it’s a perfect family outing, or even a romantic date night under the sparkling lights and Christmas trees.

Manchester Christmas Parade

But the crown jewel of Manchester’s Christmas celebrations might just be the return of the Manchester Christmas Parade. This festive tradition, which started in 2022, has quickly become a family favourite, captivating the hearts of everyone who lines the streets.

Full of joy, colour, and pageantry, the parade is set to dazzle once more this year.

Expect to see larger-than-life floats, performances, and enough heart-warming moments to melt even the iciest winter soul.

Councillor Pat Karney

Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester’s Christmas spokesperson, said: “Everyone knows by now that Christmas is my absolute favourite time of year and Manchester is my favourite place in the world to be during the festive season.

“Christmas is going to be wonderful in Manchester this year, with enough seasonal stalls across the city in our best-ever Christmas Markets to make sure that everyone gets their Christmas wrapped before the big day.

“And of course, Christmas in Santa’s favourite city simply would not be Christmas without the heart-warming event of the season, our magical Manchester Christmas Parade, which will be back again this year and promises to melt even the hardest of hearts.

“We’ve loved seeing how much our families enjoy it since our first Christmas Parade in 2022 and this year’s is going to be even more joyous and amazing – utterly unmissable!  Not long to wait now until all will be revealed!”

You can find out more by clicking here