We’re finally enjoying some autumn weather after a scorcher of a season, and it won’t be long until the festive lights make cities, towns and villages across Yorkshire look magical. Now, Yorkshire’s smallest city is set to host a three-day Christmas market, and we can’t wait to visit.
Running from 20 to 22 November, Ripon’s historic Market Place will once again become a festive wonderland as the Christmas market returns. Organised by Little Bird Made, the historic market square will be transformed into a winter wonderland, with Ripon’s famous obelisk providing a stunning backdrop.
Taking place during what is expected to be one of Ripon’s busiest periods of the year, the event will feature fantastic independent makers and regional food traders, with artisan stalls filling the festive huts with handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, jewellery, spiced drinks and a range of festive entertainment across the three days.
When is Ripon Christmas Market 2026?
The market will take place in Ripon Market Square, with the following opening times:
- Friday 20 November: 10am–7pm
- Saturday 21 November: 10am–7pm
- Sunday 22 November: 10am–4pm
Ripon Cathedral’s Christmas fair is returning too
There’s another reason to head to Ripon that weekend, as the city’s Christmas celebrations will coincide with the return of the Ripon Cathedral Christmas Food and Gift Fair. Taking place on Friday 20 and Saturday 21 November, the cathedral fair will feature more than 100 stalls selling Christmas gifts, food and drink in the spectacular setting of the historic cathedral.
The fair runs from 9.30am to 4.30pm on both days, with tickets priced at £5 and free entry for under-16s. Visitors can explore both events, with the cathedral just a short walk from the Market Square. Together, the two markets offer a brilliant opportunity to spend a full day in Ripon, discovering independent traders, picking up festive treats and enjoying the city’s historic surroundings.
Jackie Crozier, managing director of Little Bird Made, said she was “absolutely thrilled to bring the Ripon Christmas Markets back to the heart of the city for the second year running”.
Lilla Bathurst, manager of Ripon Business Improvement District, said: “Christmas markets are a huge driver of footfall for town and city centres, and Ripon is no exception. Our Ripon BID and Little Bird Made artisan Christmas market is expected to bring many people into the city to enjoy high-quality makers, a festive atmosphere and the chance to discover something truly unique.
“For the second year running, it is especially exciting as it’s Ripon’s full Christmas market and fair weekend, with the Cathedral Christmas Food and Gift Fair also running on the Friday and Saturday.”
Read More: 40 of the Most Festive Yorkshire Christmas Markets & Events To Enjoy This Winter
