Opening date for Manchester Christmas Markets 2022 officially confirmed

Manchester Christmas Markets are confirmed to be making a return in 2022, and the long-awaited opening date has now been revealed.

The air may be getting nippier, the mornings a little darker, and the nights drawing in, but at least we know the festive season is right around the corner, and it won’t be long before Manchester Christmas Markets are here once again to spread some cheer right across the city centre.

Manchester City Council has now confirmed the date for the return of the iconic annual event – which draws in visitors from all across the globe each year.

And there’s not long left to wait.

It has been announced that Manchester Christmas Markets will make their grand return for 2022 on Thursday 10 November and be open every day until Thursday 22 December – with the main market hubs in Exchange Square, St Ann’s Square, King Street, and Market Street all set to close on that date.

Other zones, however, are set to open after Christmas Day and run into the New Year.

Cathedral Gardens will already be open with food and drink stalls from 21 October to coincide with the launch of the Halloween-themed ice rink for the October half term, which will then become a festive ice rink – with stalls staying open through to 31 December.

The ice rink itself is taking bookings from 21 October – 3 January 2023.

All stalls in the main Christmas Markets hubs will be open daily from 10 November – with all retail stalls closing at 8pm, and all food and drink stalls with close by 9pm.

Read more:

• Manchester Christmas Markets have been named the best in the UK
• Massive spooky ice rink to return to Manchester city centre this Halloween
• Lightopia is returning to Heaton Park with a new Christmas-themed ‘immersive experience’ this year

Speaking on the return of the beloved Markets, Cllr Pat Karney – Christmas Spokesperson at Manchester City Council – said: “With Christmas Day a mere three months away, that can only mean one thing – Manchester Christmas Markets Day is even sooner.

“In fact, there’s only seven weeks left to go until you can grab a gluhwein and buddy up with a bratwurst whilst checking out the fantastic Christmas gifts and goodies on the best Christmas Market in the land.

“Mark it on your calendars – 10 November – they’re back!”

Full timings for Manchester Christmas Markets 2022 are expected to be confirmed by Manchester City Council this week, so keep your eyes peeled.

Featured Image – Manchester City Council