Manchester’s famed Christmas Markets may not go ahead this year due to Covid-19 regulations

Manchester Christmas Markets

Manchester’s Christmas Markets are currently under review to see if the popular event can go ahead with Covid-19 regulations and a number of seasonal events have already been cancelled.

Following a review around all major events in the city, Manchester City Council has confirmed the annual Christmas lights switch-on event and New Year’s Eve fireworks display will not go ahead.

However, there will be Christmas lights in the city centre as usual, and the giant santa will return - along with a trail of light sculptures through the city.

The Skate Manchester ice rink in Cathedral Gardens – which can limit entry numbers to ensure social distancing – will go ahead, and tickets for the Lightopia lantern and light festival in Heaton Park are already on sale.

Councillor Pat Karney, Manchester’s Christmas spokesperson, said: “Christmas in Manchester is an incredibly important time for the city’s economy. The city attracts millions of visitors each year, which local businesses rely on - and it’s important to the city’s recovery that we can bring people back into the city safely.

“Covid means that Christmas will be different this year, but we are working hard towards celebrating the festive season as safely as possible. So watch this space.”

Further detail will be released in the coming weeks. 

All events are subject to Covid regulations and restrictions, and could be affected if guidelines change.