Ready to get into the festive spirit across the Bradford district? Over the next few weeks, towns and villages will be buzzing with Christmas markets and winter craft fairs.
Visit Bradford shares: “As you wander among the sparkling lights, you'll discover a variety of unique, handmade treasures such as jewellery, pottery, and warm knitted items - ideal for those special gifts.
“The delightful aromas of seasonal delights like mulled wine and spiced cider fill the air, accompanied by the sounds of carolers and live music, making for a delightful shopping experience.
“Bring your friends and family along to soak up the festive spirit at the Christmas markets and winter craft fairs in the Bradford district.”
Let’s take a look at some of the Christmas markets taking place across the Bradford district for 2024.
Some of the best Christmas markets across the Bradford district
Christmas Craft Market
Where: Old School Room in Haworth
When: Weekends from November 23 until December 22, 10am-4pm
Visit Bradford explains: “Set in the charming Haworth Old School Room, this Christmas Craft Fair is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods and delightful treats.
“Support local artisans and find unique gifts that spread festive cheer.”
Entry costs £1.
Victorian Christmas Market
Where: Bradford Industrial Museum
When: November 23 and 24, 10am-4pm
“Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Scrooge and listen to his miserly tales, hear updates from the town crier, see the spectacular Victorian Mr & Mrs stilt walkers, and say hello to the beautiful alpacas,” says Visit Bradford.
It adds: “The season wouldn’t be complete without the festive sounds of a brass band and a visit to see the great man himself.
“Tickets to meet Santa can be purchased in advance from Bradford Industrial Museum reception or by ringing on 01274 435900. The cost is £6 per child, including a lovely gift.
“There will be a variety of stalls both indoors and outdoors to kickstart your festive shopping. Additionally, food vendors will be offering delicious treats.”
A Brief History of Christmas Markets
Entry for the event costs £2 per adult – children free.
Christmas Makers’ Fair 2024
Where: Ilkley Manor House
When: November 23 and 24, 10am-4pm
The Christmas Makers’ Fair 2024 at Ilkley Manor House is said to be the “shopping event of the season”.
Visit Bradford continues: “Sellers from across the area will be selling their beautiful wares, from ceramics to jewellery, Christmas cards to quirky decorations! Support small businesses and find a unique gift for friends and loved ones this winter.”
Admission is £1 - under 16s free.
Christmas Market – Keighley
Where: East Riddlesden Hall
When: November 31 and December 1, 10am-3pm
Its description on Visit Bradford reads: “Join us in the Airedale Barn for a festive market, including Christmas gifts, homeware and much more.
“The bar will be open, with Christmas music playing and twinkling lights it's sure to give you that festive feel!”
Saltaire Farmers Market Christmas Special
Where: The Promenade, Saltaire
When: December 8, 10am-3pm
The festive edition of Saltaire Farmers Market will see local traders run the length of The Promenade of Roberts Park while festive music plays on the bandstand.
“The atmosphere in Roberts Park on market day is always special, add in some Christmas spirit for the Saltaire Farmers Market Christmas Special and it’s a date not to miss.”
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Real Food Ilkley Christmas Market
Where: The Grove, Ilkley
When: December 15, 10am-3pm
This year’s Christmas Market from Real Markets has been described as “the perfect time to shop for your Christmas food, from meat and veg, and stocking up the cheeseboard, to handcooked meals to store in the freezer for when all those guests turn up.”
On Visit Bradford, it adds: “There will be a huge amount of talented artisan makers offering chocolates, soaps, honey, garden décor, art, blankets, wreaths, shrubs, pottery, and much much more.
“Come and meet the makers and buy something unique and special this Christmas direct from the maker.”
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