Ripon Christmas Market to return with three days of festive shopping and entertainment

The historic Market Place in Ripon will once again be transformed into a festive wonderland next month as the city's Christmas Market returns for a three-day celebration.

Organised by Little Bird Made in partnership with Ripon BID, the event will take place from Friday, November 20 to Sunday, November 22, bringing artisan traders, food producers and festive entertainment to the heart of the city.

Traditional wooden market huts will line the Market Place, offering visitors the chance to browse handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations, jewellery, artisan food and drink, and Christmas-inspired creations from independent makers across the region.

The event marks the second consecutive year that Little Bird Made has organised the Christmas market in Ripon and forms part of a wider festive weekend across the city.

Alongside the Market Place celebrations, Ripon Cathedral will also host its annual Christmas Food and Gift Fair on the Friday and Saturday, giving visitors another reason to spend the day exploring the city and supporting local businesses.

Jackie Crozier, Managing Director of Little Bird Made, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to bring the Ripon Christmas Market back to the heart of the city for the second year running.

"Transforming Ripon Market Place into such a festive wonderland housed in beautiful wooden huts creates a truly magical atmosphere for families, locals and visitors alike.

"It's a wonderful platform to showcase the incredible talent of our independent makers, creators and artisans, and we can't wait to kick off the holiday season with everyone this November."

Ripon BID Manager Lilla Bathurst said Christmas markets played an important role in attracting visitors into town centres at one of the busiest shopping periods of the year.

She 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, festive atmosphere and the chance to discover something truly unique."

She added that the timing of the event alongside the cathedral's Christmas Food and Gift Fair would help create a city-wide festive experience.

"We're delighted to work closely with Little Bird Made and the Cathedral team to promote Ripon as a destination for artisan gifts, independent shopping and festive experiences.

"Together, we're showcasing the very best of Ripon at Christmas and giving visitors more reasons to spend the day in our beautiful city."

Among the traders taking part is Natalie Deeley, owner of The Kandlers Table, who believes the event has become one of Yorkshire's leading artisan Christmas markets.

She said: "There is something for everyone, whether you're looking for handcrafted gifts and unique decorations or enjoying seasonal food and live entertainment.

"Come along and support small independent businesses this Christmas. You won't be disappointed."

Organisers hope the markets will once again provide a welcome boost for Ripon's economy by increasing visitor numbers and encouraging people to explore the city's independent shops, cafés, restaurants and hospitality venues during the festive period.