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Manchester Christmas Markets 2025: The Magic Returns to Albert Square

We’re less than a month away from the long-awaited return of Manchester’s Christmas Markets, and this year will be extra special! Albert Square will once again host one of the city’s most special Christmas celebrations. We welcome the return of Albert Square’s Christmas market with sparkling fairground rides and a 50-foot Ferris Wheel.

If you’re planning a festive staycation this Christmas, the Manchester Christmas Market should be top of your list! This year promises to be the biggest and best yet. And with Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station just moments from the action, you’ll have the perfect base to explore every market, every flavour, and every festive moment.

The Long-Awaited Return to Albert Square

For the first time since the extensive renovation of Manchester Town Hall began, the city’s most beloved festive venue, Albert Square is reopening to host the main Christmas Market once again.

Completely transformed into a winter wonderland, the historic Victorian Square will host a range of stalls featuring crafts, gifts, delicious food, and drink. Imagine the smell of roasted chestnuts and spiced mulled wine filling the air as you stroll beneath the beautiful twinkling lights of the square.

When does the Manchester Christmas Market open for 2025?

From Friday 7th November to Sunday 4th January, visitors and locals can enjoy all the Manchester Christmas Market has to offer.

Market Locations Across Manchester

One of the best things about the Manchester Christmas Markets is how they’re spread across the city centre. Each location offers something unique, from family-friendly attractions to cosy festive bars.

Albert Square

The star attraction and the original home of the markets. This year, expect a spectacular return featuring the largest collection of stalls, local and European traders, and the much-loved giant illuminated Santa keeping watch over the festivities. Albert Square is where you’ll find the most variety, from handmade decorations and artisan crafts to hearty winter meals and festive cocktails.

Exchange Square

Just a few minutes walk from Hotel Indigo Manchester, Exchange Square is perfect for those combining a market visit with Christmas shopping. Set beside Selfridges, Harvey Nichols, and the Arndale Centre, it’s a lively hub filled with food stalls, craft beer huts, and sweet treats. Expect Yorkshire pudding wraps, German sausages, churros, and vegan-friendly options too.

Cathedral Gardens

The family zone of the Christmas Markets. Bursting with fun, light and laughter, Cathedral Gardens is home to the iconic ice rink. Perfect for families and couples, this Christmas Market has plenty of hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows and churros to keep everyone happy.

King Street

For a more boutique feel, King Street offers an elegant mix of artisan market stalls, independent traders, and international delicacies. Browse handmade jewellery, candles, and festive gifts while enjoying French cheese, Italian cannoli, or Belgian chocolates. It’s the perfect stop for thoughtful gift shopping.

St Ann’s Square

One of the original market sites, St Ann’s Square, retains a traditional charm. Surrounded by beautiful architecture, this area specialises in handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations, and local crafts. It’s a quieter space where you can take your time browsing while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere.

Piccadilly Gardens (The Winter Gardens)

Piccadilly Gardens continues as the Winter Gardens, a vibrant social space filled with food vendors, bars, and live entertainment. Grab a drink at one of the alpine-style bars, sit by the outdoor heaters, and enjoy live music and festive DJs well into the evening.

Market Street

Lining one of Manchester’s busiest shopping routes, Market Street blends retail and festivity perfectly. Here, you can pick up last-minute gifts or street food while browsing high-street favourites.

How to Get to the Manchester Christmas Markets

Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station is ideally located for easy access to every market site.

  • By Train: Manchester Victoria Station is just steps from the hotel.
  • By Tram: The free city-centre tram service connects you to all key market areas, including Deansgate, St Peter’s Square, and Piccadilly.
  • On Foot: Most markets are within a 10–15 minute walk of each other, making it easy to explore the entire festive trail in one evening.

Stay at Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station

After a day spent out in the cold exploring the city’s Christmas markets, you’ll want a warm, stylish and comfortable spot to relax. That’s where Hotel Indigo Manchester steps in.

Each of our beautiful bedrooms has been inspired by Manchester and the city’s deep heritage. Blending our history with modern design and local character. Fancy a bite to eat or a tipple? Enjoy a festive cocktail and meal at Mamucium Bar & Restaurant, where seasonal flavours and northern hospitality come together.

It’s not just our hotel and facilities that set us apart; our location is unbeatable! With some of Manchester’s top attractions right on our doorstep. Make the most of our proximity to the AO Arena, National Football Museum and Printworks. Perfectly placed for a festive city break.

More Things to Do in Manchester This Christmas

Manchester offers so much more than just the markets. Why not turn your day trip into a Manchester getaway? By extending your visit, you can make the most of the festive season with some of the city’s must-do activities.

  • Catch a show: Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic pantomime, a classic ballet, or a high-energy musical you’re sure to find something the whole family will enjoy
  • Admire the decorations: Wander through the city as you take in the wonderful decorations lighting up the whole of Manchester City Centre
  • Shop till you drop: Right on our doorstep, you will find the iconic Arndale Centre and Selfridges, or wander to the independent boutiques of the Northern Quarter
  • Visit Manchester Cathedral: Step inside for a moment of calm or join a candlelit carol concert.
  • Grab a festive tipple: From rooftop igloos to cosy cocktail bars, Manchester’s winter pop-ups are the perfect way to end your evening.

Plan Your Festive Stay Today

If you’ve never been to Manchester Christmas market 2025 is the year to visit! With Albert Square once again playing host to one of the cities best markets the city’s festive spirit has never been stronger. You’ll be hard pressed to find a Christmas Market with better food, atmosphere or shopping than right here in Manchester.

Stay close to the magic at Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station and make your festive getaway truly unforgettable. Book your stay early to experience the sparkle, the sounds, and the scents of Manchester’s most magical season.