It’s that time again — Manchester’s Christmas Markets 2025 are back, twinkling across the city from Friday 7 November to Monday 22 December, with Albert Square finally rejoining the festivities after years of redevelopment. For some, that’s cause for celebration; for others, it’s a return they’re not so sure about.

Because let’s be honest — Manchester’s Christmas Markets have always split opinion. For many, they’re a magical part of the city’s festive identity: the smell of mulled wine, the sound of carols drifting through the air, and a reason to wrap up warm and head into town with friends. But for others, the crowds, queues, and sky-high sausage prices make them something to avoid altogether.

So, with the reopening of Albert Square, could this year finally be the one that wins over the critics?

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When and Where: Manchester Christmas Markets 2025

Now in their 27th year, the Christmas Markets will once again take over the city centre with over 200 wooden chalets selling everything from hand-carved gifts to festive treats. You’ll find them across nine main locations:

• Albert Square – The newly reopened square, home to A Taste of Christmas
• St Ann’s Square – A mix of traditional German stalls and Manchester-made gifts
• King Street – Perfect for continental street food and boutique shopping
• Exchange Street & New Cathedral Street – Stylish, modern, and festive
• Exchange Square – Classic market atmosphere with food, beer and bratwurst
• Corn Exchange & Cathedral Gardens – A family-friendly hub
• Market Street – Handmade crafts and local traders
• Piccadilly Gardens – Returning as the Winter Gardens social space

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Opening Dates and Times

7 November – 22 December 2025
(A Taste of Christmas at Albert Square and the stalls at Cathedral Gardens remain open until 4 January 2026.)

Craft Stalls: 10am – 8pm
Food & Drink Stalls: 11am – 9pm

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Skate Manchester at Cathedral Gardens

Back again from 25 October – 4 January 2026, Skate Manchester offers a covered rink surrounded by festive lights and music. Whether it’s raining or snowing (and let’s face it, it will probably do both), it’s one of the most magical parts of the season.

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The Manchester Christmas Parade 2025

Mark your diary for Sunday 7 December, when the Manchester Christmas Parade returns. Expect music, dancers, lights and that feel-good community vibe that brings the city together — even the Christmas Market sceptics can’t argue with that.

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Why Albert Square’s Return Matters

For years, construction work on Manchester Town Hall meant the city’s most iconic festive backdrop was missing from the markets. This year, Albert Square’s grand reopening could mark a turning point — both in atmosphere and layout.

The square’s redesign promises more open space, improved accessibility, and room for the markets to breathe a little. Many hope it’ll restore the traditional “heart” of Manchester’s Christmas celebrations and balance out the city-centre sprawl that’s drawn criticism in recent years.

Could this be the year the markets finally win everyone over?

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Prices, Travel and Tips

Entry to the Manchester Christmas Markets is free, so you can browse (and nibble) to your heart’s content.

If you’re driving, nearby car parks include Piccadilly Plaza and Chorlton Street, but expect them to be busy. Public transport is your best bet — the markets are right by Piccadilly Gardens bus station, and easily reached via Metrolink or Manchester Piccadilly station.

There are also over 30 Park and Ride sites across Greater Manchester if you’d rather avoid city-centre traffic.

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Manchester Christmas Markets Map

Want to plan your festive route? Download the official Manchester Christmas Markets 2025 Map here.

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Key Information at a Glance

• Opening Dates: 7 November – 22 December 2025
• Extended Dates: Albert Square & Cathedral Gardens until 4 January 2026
• Locations: Nine sites across Manchester city centre
• Opening Hours: 10am–8pm (Craft) / 11am–9pm (Food & Drink)
• Skate Manchester: 25 October – 4 January 2026

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