The first market we track opens on Thursday 22 October. 116 of the 154 with confirmed dates run for days or weeks and 38 are one-day fairs. 51 of 171 are free to walk in.
We read each market’s own page (usually the council or the market operator) for its 2026 dates and opening times. Where a market hasn’t announced 2026 dates yet, it stays on our city lists as “awaiting 2026 dates” and isn’t counted here.
Each city’s main market
Opening week
| Opens | Markets |
|---|---|
| Before 14 Nov | 32 |
| 14 – 20 Nov | 28 |
| 21 – 27 Nov | 33 |
| 28 Nov – 4 Dec | 24 |
| From 5 Dec | 37 |
Big city market or local fair?
We track 50 city-centre markets alongside estate, castle, craft and community fairs. City markets run for weeks; 38 of the markets and fairs with confirmed dates are on for a single day, so check the date before you set off.
Common questions
When do Christmas markets open in 2026?
The first market we track opens on Thursday 22 October (Simply Christmas at the SEC). 61 of the 154 with confirmed dates open between 14 and 27 November.
Are Christmas markets free to enter?
51 of the 171 markets and fairs we track are free to walk in; 42 charge entry.
Which Christmas markets run for weeks rather than a day?
116 run over several days or weeks; 38 are one-day fairs, often at a school, church or village hall.
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