Santa is coming to Manchester from November 8th to December 22nd! The legendary Manchester Christmas markets are set to dazzle the city in 2024. Spread across some of Manchester’s most iconic areas, shoppers, foodies, and lovers of festive joy are gearing up for six weeks of non-stop Christmas magic.
As the UK’s biggest market celebration, you’ll get the chance to explore over 200 stalls around the city. Check gifts off your Christmas list with bespoke crafts from local retailers, or try some of the nation’s favourite festive foods.
Join the millions flocking to the city this holiday season with Victoria Riverside’s Manchester Christmas market guide.
When do the Manchester Christmas Markets open?
The Manchester Christmas markets officially opened on the 8th of November and are open every day from 10am until 9pm. During this six-week period, you’ll be free to wander the city, exploring hand-made gifts, foods and seasonal goods.
On the final day, the markets will close slightly earlier at 6pm (the only exception is the food and drink stalls at Cathedral Gardens, which will stay open until the 31st of December).
Where are Manchester’s Christmas Markets 2024?
As always, the Manchester Christmas markets are spread across key locations in the city centre.
Cathedral Gardens
If you plan to explore the markets with young children, Cathedral Gardens will keep your little ones entertained. This family-oriented area is also home to Skate Manchester’s hugely popular ice rink! Visit Thursday to Sunday, and you’ll be treated to free live entertainment! Plus, with an array of hot dog stalls, crêpe stations and hot chocolate vendors, there’s no chance of you going hungry.
Exchange Square
One of Manchester’s largest market sites, Exchange Square, will be the heart of your shopping experience. You can find everything from boutique babywear to handcrafted soaps, trinkets and personalised gifts. Try Mancunian-brewed mulled wine, courtesy of the local Mill Exchange.
Get stuck into some fresh fudge, flip out over pancakes, or take a quick trip to Porky Pig, home of the viral Yorkshire Pudding wrap.
Piccadilly Gardens
Looking for under-cover space? Piccadilly Gardens will undergo a dazzling transformation this year, becoming Manchester’s very own ‘Winter Gardens’. Complete with two sparkling marquees, visitors can take a break from all their Christmas shopping and head over to the bar! Sample foreign ales, bratwursts, churros and more.
New Cathedral Street
If you’re all about high-end goods, take a trip to New Cathedral Street. Here, you’ll find handmade ceramics, local spirits, candles and other curiosities. It’s the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts for those you love.
King Street
Self-confessed foodies, look no further than King Street. This continental food market brings you flavours from around the globe. Dine Italian with Ballaro, an authentic deli that serves up deep-fried arancini and heart-warming cannelloni: the perfect meal for a winter’s day. More into Mediterranean dishes? El Gato will not disappoint. Take a stopgap in their seating area and indulge in the tapas you’ve been dreaming about.
St Ann’s Square and Exchange Street
Fun fact: St Ann’s Square is the original site of the Manchester Christmas markets! It holds a special place in the hearts of locals, which is why so many of the market’s longest-standing food, drink and gift vendors hold a stall there.
Market Street
If you’re one of the many people who hate Christmas wrapping, never fear! Simply take your gifts to Market Street and let their talented vendors do it for you. While you’re waiting, delight in delicate macaroons and take in the aroma of scented candles.
The Corn Exchange
Still searching for that one-of-a-kind gift? The Corn Exchange is where you want to be. Top up on decorations with baubles made from recycled materials, or put the finishing touches on your Christmas Day outfit with a Nepalese woollen jumper!
Looking for an apartment in Manchester?
With our properties just a short from the Manchester Christmas markets, you can get stuck into the festive fun with Victoria Riverside. Our Crown View Apartments and Bromley Streets Townhouses Apartments & Duplexes are the perfect place to settle down for Christmas. Enquire today!
Interested in buying a new home at Victoria Riverside, get in touch today.