Manchester Christmas Markets: What you need to know
Manchester City CouncilManchester Christmas Markets will open on 6 November and hundreds of festive stalls and rides will be based around ten different locations in the city centre.
Thousands of people are expected to visit the markets and the council said it was "pulling out all the stops" with this year's festivities.
Here is everything you need to know to help plan a visit.
Where is the market?
The 2026 Manchester Christmas Market will be spread across 10 locations in the city centre.
- Albert Square
- Cathedral Gardens
- Corn Exchange
- Exchange Square
- Exchange Street
- King Street
- Lincoln Square
- Market Street
- New Cathedral Street
- St Ann's Square
Manchester City CouncilWhen will it be open?
The market will be open every day from Friday 6 November to Tuesday 22 December.
However, stalls at Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens will stay open over the Christmas period until Sunday 3 January.
What is on offer?
There will be more than 210 stalls throughout the city centre with a range of options for food and drink, shopping, and entertainment.
Albert Square also welcomes the return of the 50-metre-high Ferris wheel, and the Helter-Skelter fairground ride.
As well as stalls, Cathedral Gardens will offer an undercover ice rink until 3 January.
The Manchester Christmas Parade will be held on Sunday 6 December, the council said.
Manchester City CouncilManchester City Council said it was "pulling out all the stops this year to make sure we stay top of the Christmas tree".
"The return of Christmas festivities last year to Albert Square was a triumph and we're looking to build on this success with a fantastic festive offer there again this year that is sure to be a hit with everyone who visits," said Councillor Pat Karney.
"Our legendary Christmas markets draw thousands upon thousands of visitors every year from right around the world and this year's markets look set to be the very best yet."
How much does it cost?
Entry to the Manchester Christmas Markets is free, and visitors will not need to book.
The cost of rides are still to be confirmed.
How do I get there?
Car parking spaces will be available in the city centre, including car parks at the city's universities, such as Booth Street West car park off Oxford Road.
The markets can also be easily accessed by bus, train or Metrolink. There are 24 park and ride sites around Greater Manchester.
Last year, Transport for Greater Manchester advised people to use the public transport network to avoid causing grid lock in the city centre.
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