On 14th November, a flock of festive food, drink and craft stalls flutter down from Lapland and the like to settle around Manchester. Taking their place in a multitude of locations on and slightly off the beaten track, their twinkling lights and delectable smells transform the city into a Christmas wonderland.
Albert Square is certainly the nucleus of activity, but there are equally special and slightly differing festive villages in Brazennose Street, St Anne's Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, The Corn Exchange, Corporation Street, Cathedral Gardens and Market Street. This bonanza of Christmas jollity is enough to get any Grinch pensively picking out stockings and poring over mince pie recipes.
Meander amidst the artisan and craft stalls, pausing occasionally for another mug of Gluhwein, a bratwurst or some cheesy goodness. A highlight of this extensive Christmas experience is the slightly more personal feel of Upper Campfield Market. This 'Off The High Street' section is slightly less hectic and has some wonderfully individual and handcrafted goodies to be found. Hosting a variety of quirky pop-ups such as Black Cat Cafe and Fairy Pop-Ins Cakery, there's no shortage of fun experiences and delightful sights and sounds.
Perhaps the most iconic event of the Christmas Market is the turning on of the lights. Always a magical affair, this year it will be given some showbiz pizzazz from comedian Jason Mansford and comic and actor Warwick Davis. Providing entertainment will be Britain's Got Talent winners Collabro, the stars of Shrek the Musical and new girl band, The Piccadillies. All of this adds up to a wonderful experience for the whole family with bundles of festive fun and Christmas cheer.
Manchester Christmas Market is taking place from Friday 14th November to Sunday 21st December 2014.
