Christmas Markets in North Yorkshire

Wednesday 18th October, 2023 by Host & Stay

Unique gifts, twinkling lights, mulled wine and a magical atmosphere… Nothing will get you in the festive spirit more than a Christmas market and you’ll be spoilt for choice in North Yorkshire! The perfect opportunity to finish your Christmas shopping and enjoy delicious food, there are so many incredible markets throughout the region for you to soak up the festive fun.

Start planning your winter getaway with our guide to the best Christmas markets in North Yorkshire!

York Christmas Markets | 16th November – 22nd December

York‘s popular Christmas Markets return this year on 16th November and we couldn’t be more excited! Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square will soon be transformed into a festive wonderland of alpine chalets. Head to the medieval, cobbled street known as the Shambles to soak up the magical atmosphere and enjoy the incredible street food on offer.

A perfect opportunity to support independent retailers this Christmas, you’ll be able to buy unique gifts as there are many local traders selling artisan products across the markets. If you’re looking for somewhere to get hide from the cold and enjoy a cosy afternoon, we’d recommend heading to Thor’s Tipi in the Museum Gardens. With two giant tents, log fires, live music, delicious cocktails and boozy hot chocolates, you’ll soon be in the Christmas spirit here.

Little ones will love the fun fair in Kings Square especially the old fashioned Helter Skelter! If you are visiting with children, we’d recommend going early or late to avoid the peak times especially on weekends as it can get really busy.

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Malton Christmas Markets | 2nd – 3rd December

Known as the Food Capital of Yorkshire, the charming market town of Malton is a fantastic celebration of local produce and retailers. Their popular Christmas Markets return this year on 2nd December for the weekend so if you’re looking for a festive break in the countryside, Malton could be the spot for you.

Located in the scenic Market Place, the magical two day event features over 100 stalls as well as impressive street food, live music and family entertainment. You’ll be able to enjoy choirs, brass bands, mulled wine, a Victorian-themed fairground and more!

Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a getaway with friends or a festive weekend for the whole family, Malton will have you feeling Christmassy in no time. Plus the town is very dog friendly (including the markets!) so you can bring your four legged friend along for your stay too!

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Harrogate Christmas Fayre | 1st – 17th December

The Victorian Spa town of Harrogate is a beautiful place to visit at Christmas time and their bustling Christmas Fayre is back from 1st December! Located in various places throughout the town, you’ll have plenty of festive chalets to explore including local artisan traders and traditional European stalls.

A great place to finish your Christmas shopping whilst also supporting independent retailers, you can buy the loved ones in your life a special gift such as homeware, clothing and decorations. Head to the Valley Gardens for the Little Birds’ Market which is an outdoor artisan market where you’ll find a range of traders under the Sun Colonnade.

When it comes to entertainment, there is a whole host of things on offer including an ice rink, giant ferris wheel and live music. Plus you can travel in style around the fayre and hop on the Cancy Cane Express road train!

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Knaresborough Christmas Markets | 2nd – 3rd December

If you’re hoping for a postcard perfect town at Christmas time, Knaresborough fits the mould. A twinkling Christmas tree stands proudly at the Old Market Cross, shop windows are beautifully decorated and you’ll find street entertainers throughout the crowds.

This charming market town is home to one of England’s longest running weekly markets and in the first weekend of December its historic Market Place is transformed into a Christmas hive of activity. With stalls, food and entertainment on offer, you’ll be brimming with festive cheer in no time.

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