York Christmas Festival
14th November - 22nd December 2024, 10am - 7pm
Enjoy the Christmas cheer on offer in one of the UK's most festive cities as York's restaurants, shops and attractions are beautifully decorated and provide a wonderful winter experience, with an incredible range of festive events! For the perfect York Christmas, stay in York hotels, B&Bs or self catering and give yourself a luxurious amount of time to soak up the festive atmosphere.
York's award-winning Christmas Market is back from 14th November to 22nd December 2024, bringing festive cheer to the heart of the city. With 75 alpine chalets lining Parliament Street and St Sampson’s Square, the market offers a magical array of local crafts, artisan products, and delicious seasonal treats. The vintage carousel on King’s Square adds to the festive atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for families and visitors alike. With 80% of the traders hailing from Yorkshire, this is a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying the best of what the region has to offer.
The market is not just about shopping - it's about creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone. There’s a focus on sustainability with a selection of traders committed to ethical and eco-friendly practices. Additionally, a quieter period from 10am to 12pm daily ensures that the market is accessible to all visitors.
The Take A Seat Initiative ensures that everyone, including those with reduced mobility, can comfortably enjoy the festivities around the city. And with public transport options like York Park & Ride making it easy to get into the city centre, it’s never been easier to experience the magic of Christmas in York. Make it York are working in partnership with St Sampson's Centre and City of York Council to deliver a 'Quiet Oasis': an accessible space a few meters away from the main market and next to the accessible toilet and Changing Places facilities in Silver Street.
Christmas is a great time to support local businesses and we're looking forward to welcoming residents and visitors to safely enjoy the festivities in York.
Experience Christmas in York
Christmas Events in York
There are Christmas events for everyone at York, whether you're looking for family friendly activities, shows and concerts, or a festive evening out with friends.
York Christmas Market
York's award-winning Christmas Market is back from 14th November to 22nd December 2024, bringing festive cheer to the heart of the city.
Christmas Market Trader List
Discover the festive delights of York's Christmas Market. Browse the charming stalls for unique local treasures and seasonal gifts. Join the cheer in York this winter!
Book Your Festive Stay
Elevate your Christmas experience and immerse yourself in the city's yuletide charm with an extended stay. Discover the magic of York's Christmas traditions, wander through twinkling streets, and let the festive spirit embrace you a little longer.
Visit York Gift Shop
Discover handpicked treasures from the Visit York Information Centre & Gift Shop. Adorn your Christmas tree with our exclusive York Baubles, cherish the city's beauty through Chris Ceaser's photography cards, unique handcrafted FaTuz magnets, and more!
Visit York Pass
Embrace the magic of York this festive season with the Visit York Pass! Unlock exclusive savings at top attractions, savour more and spend less. Your Yuletide adventure awaits!
York Park & Ride
Step into the festive spirit with York Park & Ride! Glide past the busy streets and straight into holiday cheer with frequent buses every 12 minutes and complimentary parking.
Accessibility Guide
Read our accessibility guide to the York Christmas Market, which includes information about designated quieter periods and parking details.
Explore The Virtual Christmas Market
If you're unable to join us in person for the Christmas Market, explore our Virtual Market! Discover this year's traders and shop for the range of Christmas goodies and treats.
Christmas Market FAQs
Your questions about the Christmas Market have been answered on our FAQ page, so you can be as informed as possible before your festive trip to York!
Sustainability Guide
We strive to be as sustainable as possible at Visit York. Explore our Sustainability Guide to read how we are committed to minisiming our environmental impact over the festive period.
Christmas Guide 2024
Head over to the Visit York Information Centre and pick up your ultimate Christmas guide, or discover the digital version to be clued up before you visit.
Give Us Your Feedback
Share your experience of York's Christmas Market through our short survey - we always appreciate your feedback!
What's on this Christmas in York
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All Christmas Events in York
Santa sightings? Festive Afternoon Tea? Plan your perfect Christmas adventure by browsing all of the Christmas events in York.
Meet Santa
Santa has been spotted across the city! Don't miss the chance to tell him what's on the top of your Christmas list this year.
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From classic carols, to theatre fun and orchestral masterpieces, there is something for all music and drama lovers in York this Christmas.
Family Friendly Events
Family friendly festive events to keep kids, and all the family, entertained this Christmas!
Enjoy Christmas Safely
We’re working with Counter Terrorism Policing UK to keep York safe. Your safety is our priority. If you see something that doesn't feel right, tell security staff or report online at gov.uk/ACT
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