Christmas markets are one of the best ways to get into the festive spirit but where are they taking place in North Yorkshire this year?
Whether you want to find some of the best local produce (from freshly baked bread to cheese selections) or the perfect handmade gift for a loved one, there is bound to be something for everyone.
Wrap up warm, grab a hot chocolate and stroll around the many stalls this festive season as choirs sing your favourite carols and brass bands play your favourite songs.
Let’s take a look at some of the Christmas markets in North Yorkshire for 2024.
A Brief History of Christmas Markets
5 of North Yorkshire’s best Christmas markets
Harrogate Christmas Fayre
Where: Harrogate Town Centre
When: November 29 - December 15, 10am - 7pm daily (11am – 4.30pm on Sundays)
Across 17 days, Christmas magic will be in the air in Harrogate as shoppers will be treated to an “eclectic mix of local traders and traditional European Christmas stalls”.
Visit Harrogate adds: “Among the many stalls and entertainments will be arts and crafts from artisan creators, mouth-watering treats for customers to sample or purchase, festive decorations for your home and a range of unique gift ideas for you to choose from, or just treat yourself amid the busy Christmas preparations.
“In addition to the chance to enjoy a truly Harrogate Christmas shopping experience, there will be music and entertainment to add to the perfect Christmas atmosphere whether you visit friends or family.”
Knaresborough Christmas Market
Where: Knaresborough Market Place
When: December 7 (10am - 5pm) and December 8 (10am - 4.30pm)
The Knaresborough Christmas Market website shares: “Join us on the first weekend in December for a wonderful festive event in the picturesque North Yorkshire market town of Knaresborough, with quality stalls, independent shops and live entertainment.
“Knaresborough's Christmas Market Weekend is centred around the town's historic Market Place, although there are festive events for all ages taking place throughout the town.”
Visitors can expect “a fantastic selection of stalls” including some “old favourites” and “plenty of new ones too.”
The Knaresborough Christmas Market website adds: “There is a free Park and Ride at GSPK on Manse Lane too (HG5 8LF) and a spectacular firework finale at 4.30pm on Sunday, set against the backdrop of Knaresborough's stunning viaduct and Nidd Gorge. Pet owners note that this will last around 10 minutes.”
Malton Christmas Festival
Where: Malton Market Place
When: December 7 - 8, 9am - 3.30pm
Malton Christmas Festival has been described as “the shopping event of the year,” according to Visit Malton.
It says: “Expect a fabulous weekend of festive fun in and around Malton’s picturesque Market Place, with delicious food and festive gift stalls, street food, live music from local brass bands and choirs and family entertainment.
“Malton’s shops will be packed with Christmas gift ideas too - stay a while longer and explore the many charming streets across town on your visit.”
Skipton Christmas Market
Where: Skipton High Street
When: December 1 and 8, 10am - 5pm
Welcome to Skipton reveals: “We have a fantastic festive day planned for you all this year!!
“We have over a 100 fabulous stall festive market featuring some of the region’s favourite artisan makers, producers, and crafters!!
“Combined with our array of fabulous independent shops in Skipton it is the perfect opportunity to make a start on your Christmas shopping!!”
It continues: “We have lots of entertainment planned too, including a festive music stage!! What could be better than listening to Fairy-tale of New York, with a mulled wine in one hand and a German bratwurst in the other!
Recommended reading:
- All you need to know about York Christmas Markets 2024 - it's time to get festive
- Can you feel the festive magic? Locals' favourite things about York at Christmas
- 'Enchanting festive Neverland' in York among best places to visit at Christmas
Grassington Christmas Market
Where: Grassington Village Square
When: November 30 and December 7
“It’s a local Christmas market with stalls, food and drink and music from The City of Bradford Brass Band, Tony Bailey and Paul Harper to entertain us on the way,” says Discover Grassington.
“Come and explore the stalls full of Christmas gifts and festive food.
"You’ll find Fayth Seaglass, Footprint Pottery, Herd & Hive, Millie’s Brownies, Northern Lavender, Penny Haygarth childens’ book, Love Pickle, The Flower Loft, The Zero Pantry Ltd, Yorkshire Air Ambulance – and many more!"
Are any of these Christmas markets your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.
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