Do you need tickets for Manchester Christmas Markets 2024?

The festive season is nearly here. Halloween has passed, the days are shorter, and Manchester Christmas Markets will soon return to the city.

Manchester Christmas Markets officially opens to the public on Friday 8 November and will remain open until 22 December.

This year the event is split across nine locations in Manchester city centre with its main hub, promised to be “bigger and better than ever”, at Piccadilly Gardens and other areas including Exchange Square, New Cathedral Street and Market Street.

Read more: Manchester Christmas Markets dates, times and locations confirmed for 2024 festive return

The Manchester Christmas lights trail will also return this year to illuminate the city centre streets throughout the festive season with giant baubles, a Manchester bee and even Santa Claus!

The popular Manchester Christmas parade will also be back on Sunday 8 December, taking a longer route this year to allow even more families to catch the festive fun and see Santa stroll down Manchester’s streets.

Market stalls selling crafts and retail goods will be open 10 am - 8 pm and food and drinks stalls will be open 11 am until 9 pm.

The annual Skate MCR ice rink will also return to Cathedral Gardens from 8 November until 1 January.

Do I need a ticket for Manchester Christmas Markets?

You don’t need a ticket to attend Manchester Christmas Markets this year. Just turn up and roam around, browsing the different sites and explore the festive stalls.

If you want to visit the ice skating rink in Cathedral Gardens then you will need to purchase a ticket. You can either book your ticket online in advance or purchase them at the ticket booth on the day. Adult tickets start at £14.

How can I get to Manchester Christmas Markets?

You can travel into the city centre by tram, bus or car. There are multiple car parks close to the markets and many convenient tram and bus stops around town.