The countdown is on to a popular Christmas Market Weekend that is promising to offer visitors a Yorkshire Christmas experience to remember.
Centred around the imposing Christmas tree in Knaresborough's historic Market Place, this traditional Yorkshire market is a firm favourite with residents and visitors alike.
The market opens at 10am on Saturday December 3, when the town centre will be filled with almost 60 stalls selling seasonal goods, decorations, cards, gifts and the best of locally-sourced produce.
Hot roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and performances by a wide variety of local dancers, brass bands and choirs will add to the festive atmosphere.
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Elsewhere in the town visitors can take in the picturesque viaduct river view, explore Knaresborough’s Castle grounds and Tudor Courthouse museum and visit the stunning Christmas Tree festival at St John’s Parish Church or enjoy Mother Shipton’s Christmas Experience with pre-booked tickets.
Market Chair, Hazel Haas, said: “Last year’s market was a huge success and we were thrilled with the feedback from traders and visitors alike.
"There was such a buzz in the town.
"I think people were just so pleased to see the return of large scale town events after a difficult 18-months.
"The 2022 market promises to be even bigger and there has been a high demand from traders, with stalls selling out way ahead of time.
"We are also keen that this year’s market benefits the town as a whole.
"Members of our volunteer committee have been liaising with other local organisations and businesses to ensure that we are promoting the full range of festive events taking place in Knaresborough over the market weekend.
"We are also supporting Rotary, Lions, St Michael’s Hospice, Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, Air Cadets, Girl Guides Association and Knaresborough Cricket Club, who are our charitable partners for this year.”
Committee member Charlotte Gale added: "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 businesses always make such an effort to decorate their windows for Christmas, which gives a wonderful festive feeling in town on the market weekend.”
As always, the market weekend will close at 4.30pm on Sunday, December 4 with a fantastic firework finale, set against the dramatic backdrop of Knaresborough’s famous viaduct and the Nidd Gorge.
This is best seen from any viewpoint which overlooks the river area.
The centre of Knaresborough is largely pedestrianised for the event, but a free Park and Ride is available all weekend from the GSPK car park (HG5 8LF) on Manse Lane to Chapel Street, close to the market square.
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