Christmas in Leeds is gearing up to be a grander affair this year, as the city gets ready to usher in a fresh festive market.
In an unprecedented move, various streets and locations throughout the city centre will play host to approximately 120 market stalls, all styled after the Bavarian tradition, spanning across 13 distinct areas, including Briggate, City Square, and the vicinity of The Corn Exchange.
These classic timber stalls, adorned with festive illuminations, will encompass a diverse array of traders, featuring not only local UK vendors but also international ones, along with Yorkshire and Leeds-based businesses.
Running from November 24 to December 22, the novel Christmas market will also introduce three outdoor bar zones with a Christmas theme. These will be situated on Briggate, Quebec Street (adjacent to City Square), and Dortmund Square.
An array of family-friendly events and attractions is in the works to complement the market, adding to the city’s long-standing traditional Christmas offerings at Millennium Square and Victoria Gardens. These will include the well-loved Ice Cube outdoor ice skating rink, market stalls, and other themed amusements.
Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be bringing a new and exciting festive experience to Leeds this Christmas that will transform the whole city centre.
“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes for some time now to find the right Christmas market that will give more people, places and businesses the chance to be part of one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year.
“This new market will make the most of the fantastic, newly pedestrianised spaces we have across the city and make Leeds feel more special and magical than ever before.”
The market’s operation will be overseen by Market Place Europe, the UK’s foremost Christmas market operator, renowned for its award-winning markets in cities such as Belfast, Newcastle, and Harrogate. Notably, this endeavour will incur no cost for Leeds City Council and is anticipated to bring in revenue for the city.
Allan Hartwell managing director of Market Place said: “We are delighted to have been given this opportunity to help create a wonderful Christmas experience deserving of such a great city.
“The market will bring festive life, colour and vibrancy to some of the best spaces and places in Leeds city centre.”
Further details about the market will be unveiled in the forthcoming months.
Individuals interested in hosting a stall at the market can express their intent by registering at www.marketplaceeurope.co.uk.
