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 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
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.
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