Manchester Christmas markets return across 10 locations

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Manchester’s famous Christmas markets are returning this year, spreading festive cheer across 10 city centre locations.

The markets will be open from Friday, November 6 to Tuesday, December 22.

However Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens will remain open until Sunday, January 3, extending the holiday spirit into the new year.

More than 210 stalls will fill the streets with food, drink, and crafts.

Albert Square, which partially reopened for last year’s celebrations, will once again be a central hub of the markets.

It will feature the popular 50-metre Ferris wheel, a helter-skelter, a pop-up pub, and plenty of seasonal surprises for the whole family to enjoy.

There are even more stalls on Market Street (Image: Newsquest)

Other locations include King Street, St Ann's Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, and Market Street.

Not included in the list this year is Piccadilly Gardens. However, a new location has been added to the line-up - Lincoln Square, where there will be over a dozen stalls.

Visitors will notice a refreshed layout at St Ann's Square, which will offer even more options for shopping and dining.

Cathedral Gardens will once again be home to Skate MCR’s undercover ice rink and festive stalls, remaining open until January 3.

Councillor Pat Karney, Christmas spokesperson for Manchester City Council, said: "There's nowhere that does Christmas quite like Manchester.

"We're the number one Christmas city and we're pulling out all the stops this year to make sure we stay top of the Christmas tree.

"The return of Christmas festivities last year to Albert Square was a triumph and we're looking to build on this success with a fantastic festive offer there again this year that is sure to be a hit with everyone who visits.

"Our legendary Christmas markets draw thousands upon thousands of visitors every year from right around the world and this year's markets look set to be the very best yet, with a brand-new location in Lincoln Square just around the corner from Albert Square, and a brand-new look and even more stalls in St Ann's Square.

"And with the return of Zippy Santa keeping his watchful eye over the city, the ice rink in Cathedral Gardens, and our made-for-memories Christmas Parade, Christmas in Manchester will be absolutely magical this year and we can't wait to welcome everyone and celebrate the festive season with them."

The Manchester Christmas Parade will return on Sunday, December 6.

Further details are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

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