Harrogate will become 'festive wonderland' for ten days as Christmas market opens to public
In less than 24 hours’ time Harrogate town centre will be transformed into a festive wonderland as the fantastic Harrogate Christmas Fayre is launched with a brand new dedicated bar area.
Delivered by award-winning operators, Market Place, in partnership with Visit North Yorkshire, part of North Yorkshire Council, this year’s ten-day event will feature up to 40 traditional wooden chalets offering an exciting mix of food, drink, and gifts.
Running from December 5 to December 14 in Harrogate town centre, visitors can expect vibrant international flavours, with traders joining from Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands, alongside a wide range of local and regional businesses.
And the Christmas Market is just one of a wealth of other festive events and activities in Harrogate with the popular Candy Cane Express road train making a return.
Andy Pidgen, Market Manager, said: “We are delighted to bring the Harrogate Christmas Fayre back for another year, introducing exciting new features alongside much-loved favourites.
"Harrogate Christmas Fayre is not only a celebration of cherished festive traditions but also an important contributor to the local economy, attracting visitors from across the region to enjoy the unique seasonal charm of Harrogate.”
A new highlight of this year’s market is a dedicated bar area with ample seating, providing the perfect spot to relax and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere while enjoying a warming mug of Glühwein or a seasonal tipple.
Visitors will be spoilt for choice with an array of mouth-watering treats, including sizzling Bratwurst sausages, indulgent sweet and savoury crumble pots, hearty Christmas sandwiches, loaded doughnuts and crispy churros.
Beyond the food, the Fayre will be brimming with treasures for those in search of something special, from handcrafted ceramics and personalised decorations to delicate jewellery, vibrant Dutch flowers, and cosy winter accessories.
Families can also enjoy the return of the ever-popular free Candy Cane Express road train, transporting market-goers from James Street around the town every Thursday to Sunday.
Harrogate Christmas Fayre opening hours
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm
Sun: 11am-4:30pm
Candy Cane Express Operating Hours
Thursday – Saturday: 10am-7pm (suspended between 4.30pm and 6pm)
Sunday: 11am-4pm.
More information: www.visitnorthyorkshire.com/Christmas