The market has opened for 2026 (Image: Flavio Vallenari via Getty Images)
A popular Christmas market has made its return, featuring more than 200 stalls. The festive period is nearly here, with towns and cities throughout the UK preparing to embrace the seasonal transformation.
For one city, the Christmas celebrations have already kicked off, with its markets launching today (Friday, November 6). Manchester Christmas Markets is delivering festive shopping, food and drink to the city’s streets. Timber chalets are positioned throughout sections of Manchester, offering visitors the chance to browse handcrafted presents, artisan products and international food and drink, while also enjoying family-friendly festive attractions.
The market features 210 stalls (Image: Getty)
Albert Square will serve as the focal point of the celebrations, featuring the 50-metre-tall Ferris wheel alongside a pop-up pub. Manchester’s Giant Santa will return once more, accompanied by a vintage Helter-Skelter.
This year introduces a brand new tree installation complete with a life-sized selfie sleigh. Meanwhile, Cathedral Gardens houses Skate MCR, a covered ice-skating rink surrounded by further stalls.
In a month’s time, the Manchester Christmas Parade will proceed, with further details about the occasion to be announced before Sunday, December 6. Overall, the markets will comprise 210 stalls across 10 separate city centre locations.
Where is the Manchester Christmas Market?
The market spans the city centre as hundreds of stalls create the festive atmosphere. This year, sites include Albert Square, Lincoln Square, King Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, and Market Street.
When does the market open?
Manchester Christmas Markets will open on Friday, November 6 and run until Tuesday, December 22. The festivities at Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens will remain open throughout the Christmas period until Sunday, January 3.
Meanwhile, Skate MCR ice rink will be open from Friday, November 6 to Sunday, January 3. The market is open seven days a week from 10am until 9pm.
How much is Manchester Christmas Market?
Entry to Manchester Christmas Market is free and you do not need a ticket to gain access.
How to get to Manchester Christmas Market
Manchester Christmas Market is most easily reached by public transport as Manchester city centre benefits from train, tram and bus services. Manchester’s Victoria and Piccadilly Stations are within walking distance of the markets.
Trams and buses on the Bee Network operate every 12 minutes, and are described as the “easiest, cheapest and fastest” method of reaching the markets.
Roads and car parks are said to be extremely busy, with the alternative of using Greater Manchester’s Park and Ride sites instead. Several car parks are within walking distance of the markets, with Piccadilly Plaza and Chorlton Street being the nearest.
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This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
