Ripon Set to Sparkle with Magical Artisan Christmas Market
Come and visit Ripon’s Magical Artisan Market
This November, Ripon will burst into festive life as a brand new 3-day Magical Artisan Christmas Market transforms the city’s historic Market Square into a winter wonderland filled with music, sparkling entertainment, food, and unique gifts.
Brought to life by Ripon BID Ltd, Visit Ripon and Little Bird Artisan Markets, the market promises a joyful celebration of community spirit, local creativity, and seasonal cheer.
Over three days, visitors will discover a hand-picked selection of artisan stalls featuring local makers, bakers, artists, and craftspeople all housed in traditional wooden huts. From unique handcrafted gifts to mouth-watering festive treats, the market will be a treasure trove of Christmas delights — perfect for ticking off your seasonal shopping list while supporting small and independent businesses.
The festivities won’t stop at shopping. A full programme of live entertainment will create a truly “Ripon” Christmas feel, with cheeky elves, a magical Father Christmas and the amazing Calvos street entertainers (see video here: https://vimeo.com/291701604). Santa will be in his grotto (in the Cabmen’s Shelter) on Saturday from 2-4pm and Sunday from 12-2pm. Families can look forward to a magical experience, and food lovers can indulge in a range of seasonal bites and warming winter drinks.
Organisers say the market is designed to boost footfall in Ripon, encourage residents and visitors alike to “shop local,” and give small businesses a golden opportunity to shine during one of the most important trading periods of the year.
“We want to showcase the incredible talent and creativity of our local makers and create an unmissable event that brings people together,” says Lilla Bathurst, Manager of Ripon BID. “It’s about celebrating what makes Ripon unique — our independent businesses, our community spirit, and our beautiful city centre.”
Little Bird Artisan Markets, already known for attracting crowds with their vibrant, high-quality events, will bring their expertise to deliver a market experience full of charm and atmosphere.
The market is also set to have a positive impact beyond the weekend itself, with local hospitality venues, shops, and attractions set to benefit from increased visitors and longer dwell times.
“This is more than just a market — it’s an opportunity for Ripon to shine and for visitors to fall in love with our city,” says Jackie Crozier of Little Bird Artisan Markets.
The Ripon Magical Artisan Christmas Market will run on Friday 21st and Saturday 22nd November from 2pm-8pm and on Sunday 23rd November 10am-3pm in Ripon Market Square. Entry is free, and everyone is welcome.
Supported by David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire and part-funded by York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.
