Knaresborough Christmas Market, in Yorkshire, returns for the weekend of December 5 and 6, featuring nearly 80 stalls and a Sunday fireworks display. The market, which has been a tradition for decades, was saved in 2007 by a group of volunteers when its existence was threatened.
Festive highlights and attractions
The market will transform the town centre with stalls offering seasonal goods, decorations, cards, gifts, and locally sourced produce. Mulled wine, along with performances from local dancers, brass bands, and choirs, will enhance the atmosphere as visitors browse illuminated stalls and independent shops.
Knaresborough has become a festive destination, having featured in two Christmas films. Most of A Very British Christmas was shot in the town, with railway sequences captured at Pickering Station and the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. It was also the backdrop for last year's Tinsel Town, starring Kiefer Sutherland and Rebel Wilson.
Event details and visitor information
The event runs from 10am until 5pm on both days. The town centre will be largely pedestrianised, with bus and railway stations within walking distance. A complimentary park and ride service will operate from the GSPK car park (HG5 8LF) on Manse Lane to Chapel Street, with buses running from 8am to 5.30pm.
Visitors can admire the viaduct river view, explore Knaresborough's Castle grounds, visit the Tudor Courthouse museum and Knaresborough Heritage Centre, and experience the Christmas Tree Festival at St John's Parish Church or Mother Shipton's Cave Christmas Experience (pre-booked tickets required).
Fireworks finale and community support
The event concludes with a firework finale at 4.30pm on Sunday, set against the backdrop of the viaduct and Nidd Gorge. Market chair Bill Taylor said: "Last year's market was a huge success and we were thrilled with the feedback from both traders and visitors. The 2026 market promises to be even bigger and there has been a really high demand from traders."
Committee member Charlotte Gale said: "We have a fantastic range of local independent shops, galleries, cafes and restaurants in town, not just in the market square, but on the surrounding streets and High Street. We hope that visitors to the market will also take the time to explore everything which Knaresborough has to offer."
The event is organised by volunteers from the local Rotary and Lions Clubs and Knaresborough and District Chamber, raising funds for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, St John Ambulance, Knaresborough Museum Association, and Claro Enterprises. This year's market has the backing of Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, David Skaith, and receives part-funding from York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority through Eventure Knaresborough via the Vibrant and Sustainable High Streets Fund.
