York Christmas Festival

14th November - 22nd December 2024

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, while the Safe Space Scheme for women offers peace of mind for those who might need it. 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.

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

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!

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.

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.

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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!

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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.

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.

What's on this Christmas in York

See all Christmas Events

Fun events for all the family and the festive!

30th Nov 24 - 1st Dec 24

Santa’s Grotto in the Boathouse

Share a laugh and photograph with Santa in Castle Howard's Grotto this Christmas, which has moved locations to the Boat…

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13th Dec 24

Candlelit Christmas in Harrogate

Enchanting harmonies beneath flickering flames: A timeless celebration of Christmas with our mesmerizing candlelit conc…

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23rd Nov 24 - 24th Dec 24

Father Christmas in the Castle

Meet Father Christmas, Mrs Claus and jolly WonderPhil at Castle Howard this Christmas. Watch a joyful performance burst…

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7th Dec 24 - 5th Jan 25

Beauty and The Beast

Unleash the beast and the magic of pantomime with this years sparkling musical fairy tale. The most enchanting pantomim…

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See all Festive Events

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.

Pantos, Theatre and Music

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