Christmas markets return to square after six years

STALLS AND FOOD VENDORS WILL ALSO APPEAR AT OTHER VENUES ACROSS THE CITY CENTRE

- By CHRIS GEE

MANCHESTER'S traditional Christmas market's will return to Albert Square this year for the first time since 2019 with 'high end' fairground rides installed in front of the town hall.

The city council has applied for planning permission for the temporary change of use of eight areas of public space across Manchester city centre.

The areas will be closed off for market use for a period of up to 59 days from early November to January 4, 2026.

Albert Square will once again be a venue for festivities this year.

It has not been used as a venue for the Christmas Markets since 2019 due to the ongoing old town hall refurbishment project which has left the area boarded off to the public.

The stalls there will consist of food, beverage and craft alongside fairground attractions.

The layout for each of the eight sites has been agreed in consultation with the management team, police and the council's neighbourhood services.

Opening times will normally be 10am-9pm for food and drinks outlets and 10am-8pm for craft stalls.

The markets will close at 5pm on Christmas Eve and all day on Christmas Day.

The Albert Square area will remain open until after midnight on New Year's Eve until 12.30am.

The report said no glass receptacles will be permitted for drinkers.