The big day is finally here – after four long years, the Leeds Christmas Markets have returned.
From Gluhwein stalls to Leeds-baked brownies, the city is set to come to life with an unrivalled festive spirit today – and we’ve got the scoop on where you need to check out.
In total there will be 12 different locations across the city centre, including:
- City Square
- Boar Lane outside Holy Trinity Church
- Outside the Corn Exchange
- Briggate
- New Briggate
- Albion Place
- Lands Lane
- Headrow
- Cookridge Street
- Bond Street
- Dortmund Square
- Millennium Square, next to the Ice Cube
Opening Times
Opening from 10am Monday – Saturday and midday on Sundays, there’s truly going to be something for the whole family. Whether you’re watching the giant advent calendar open with the kids, or out with mates looking for a mugful of Glühwein to warm you from the cold – all twelve locations will bring the best of Leeds’ festive spirit alive.
The full opening hours for the Leeds Christmas Markets 2023 are as follows:
- Mondays: 10am-7pm
- Tuesdays: 10am-7pm
- Wednesdays: 10am-7pm
- Thursdays 10am-9pm
- Fridays: 10am-9pm
- Saturdays: 10am-9pm
- Sundays: 10am / 10.30am – 6pm
What can I buy from the Leeds Christmas Markets?
There will be artisan gifts and handcrafted goods aplenty on offer, with a standout selection of food and drink options that embody the Christmas spirit we all know and love around this time of year. Hog roast, Italian chocolates and specialty cheeses are just the beginning…
As the setting up process is now fully in swing, we’ve been keeping a beady eye out for any confirmed traders. Here’s what we’ve spotted so far…
- Proove Pizza outside Leeds Corn Exchange
- Pimento’s On The Go outside Leeds Corn Exchange
- Crepes, Windmill bar and Wok on Briggate
What’s going on at Millennium Square and Victoria Gardens?
Millennium Square | Open from Friday 24 November 2023
When: From Friday 24 November – Sunday 31 December 2023
Where: Millennium Square and Victoria Gardens, Calverley Street, Leeds, LS2 3AD
Ice Cube on Millennium Square is the perfect place to test out your ice skating skills – and whether you’re a pro on the ice or it’s just your first time skating, there’s different timings to suit every ability. There’s Penguin Club for little ones looking for some extra assistance, lessons with a National Ice Skating Association instructor and a dedicated accessible skating session for wheelchair users and those with additional needs; all in addition to the general public skates that take place each day.
In addition to the skating rink, you’ll find craft, food and drink stalls and a full family funfair with themed rides, like Rescue Rudolph, Santa’s Super Shooter, a giant Snow Globe and the North Pole Funhouse.
And for the traditionalists amongst you take a ride on the vintage carousel or The Wheel of Light which will give you spectacular views of the city. Plus, Thor’s Tipi will also be there – but more of that later!
The current opening times for Millennium Square and Victoria Garden’s festivities are as follows:
Ice Skating Rink
- Monday – Thursdays: 12.30pm – 9.15pm
- Fridays: 12.30pm – 10.15pm
- Saturdays: 10.15am – 7.15pm
- Sundays: 10.30am – 7.15pm
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day: CLOSED
- Wednesday 27 December – Friday 29 December: 10.30am – 9.15pm (10.15pm on Friday)
Big Wheel
- 12pm-8pm daily
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day: CLOSED
Carousel
- Monday – Saturday: 12pm-9.30pm
- Sundays: 12pm – 7pm
- Christmas Day and Boxing Day: CLOSED
Food and Drink at Millennium Square
So far we’ve spotted two local traders over at Millennium Square: The Savvy Baker and Spuds & Bros.
Savannah Roqqa, owner of The Savvy Baker, announced the news on Instagram saying: “It’s our final announcement of the week! Surprise surprise! We have our own Savvy Baker Chalet at Leeds Christmas Markets in Millennium Square! We’ll be right next to the Ice Rink
“The market opens for business this Friday and is open almost every day until December 31st! We will have our classic bakes, festive favourites, stuffed cookies and Yule logs available
“Can you believe it?! We’re absolutely buzzing aaaaaah!!! See you there 🎄☃️🎅🏻”
Meanwhile subtly Spuds & Bro’s Poutine added the Leeds Christmas Markets to its Instagram bio.
Whilst the official long-list of traders is still yet to be announced, we’ll keep you updates on all our findings on the day on our Instagram page @thehootleeds.
Read More:
- The Ultimate Guide to Christmas in Leeds
- Father Christmas is coming to Thackray Museum for ‘heartwarming adventures’ for the whole family
- The best festive food and drink specials confirmed so far in Leeds this Christmas
See you at the markets tomorrow Leeds!
Feature Image – Unsplash
