Summer is summering, but for us at The Yorkshireman, who absolutely love Christmas, it’s almost time to begin our countdown until our streets are filled with twinkling lights, festive cheer, and a few mulled wines.
So you’ll have to forgive us for celebrating the return of York Christmas Market 2026 before Halloween has even had the chance to spook us. The York festive market is the best in Yorkshire by far in my opinion.
When is York Christmas Market 2026?
The award-winning market is set to take over York city centre once more from 12th November to 21st December 2026. Visitors can expect alpine chalets brimming with handmade gifts and crafts, alongside sweet treats and mouth-watering seasonal food and drink from local vendors. The city centre will once again be transformed into a festive wonderland, bringing a Christmas atmosphere with it.
What times will the Christmas market be open?
Organised by Make It York, the Christmas Market is open six days a week, from 10:30am to 7pm, Wednesday to Monday, and closed on Tuesdays for a weekly rest day.
Something different this year…
But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the festive cheer in York city centre. While York Christmas Market is closed on Tuesdays for a rest day, the city remains open and welcoming for your festive days out. The city has stunning restaurants across the city offering plenty of cheer.
York Christmas Market is always the busiest time of year for the historic city. There’s so much to do; you can wander its ancient streets, visit an attraction and get booked in one of its many independent shops and bars.
The historic Shambles Market and Shambles Food Court will remain open every day, 9am to 5pm, as usual in the heart of York’s city centre. A hub for independent traders where you can find something different every day, offering a delightful variety of choice.
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director of Make It York, said: “Our aim is to ensure the city delivers a world-class Christmas experience that balances the needs of visitors, residents and businesses.
“We would love for everyone to keep York and the Christmas Market firmly on their itineraries. There’s so much to do and see in the city throughout the week, your time in the city can be easily packed with the city’s world-class attractions, events, and food and drink options.”
Read More: An Immersive Northern Lights Trail Is Returning To Yorkshire This Christmas
