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.
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.
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 EventsFun events for all the family and the festive!
Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light
An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service for all the family based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebr…
Beauty and The Beast
Unleash the beast and the magic of pantomime with this years sparkling musical fairy tale. The most enchanting pantomim…
Big Christmas Concert
The biggest Christmas concert in York is back with classic Christmas tunes, brass bands, carols and bags of festive che…
Big Christmas Concert - MATINEE
The Big Christmas Concert is back in York with a matinee performance on 21st December. Get ready for another fun packed…
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
Book Your Stay
See all AccommodationExtend your Christmas break and soak up more of the city’s festive magic by booking a stay.
Hotel du Vin York
Tucked away in the Mount area of the city, our York hotel lies within a Grade II-listed mansion house, combining classi…
Malmaison York
This converted landmark insurance building is perfect for those with a policy on stylish bedrooms, delicious dining and…
The Caravan & Motorhome Park at The Riverfront York
The Riverfront York’s caravan and motorhome park is an idyllic spot where nature's beauty meets the comforts of home. W…
Castle Howard Holiday Cottages
The Cottages These beautiful holiday cottages are pet-friendly and located in attractive rural villages near Castle How…
