THE UK’s biggest one-day Christmas market is to return in just a few weeks after it was abruptly cancelled last year.
Thousands are expected to attend the event in a historic market town.
Shoppers will be able to choose from 120 stalls set up in the centre of Beverley in Yorkshire next month after council officials confirmed the event would be back in place this year.
Stalls will once again be brimming with seasonal gifts and local treats with entertainment including face painting and traditional Victorian fairground rides.
There will also be live entertainment, music and dancing – and, of course, an appearance from Santa and his reindeers.
The event had to be cancelled at the last-minute in 2024 after Storm Darragh caused chaos across the UK last year.
Locals and visitors were left disappointed after council officials took the decision to cancel the market in the run up to the event after 34 flood warnings were issued across the country and a cold weather health alert was put in place.
At the time, a spokesperson for East Riding of Yorkshire Council said the event had involved six months of planning and the decision to cancel “had not been taken lightly”.
Announcing its return for 2025, councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, tourism and leisure at the council, said the event is “the flagship tourism event for our region and is an important date in the calendar for businesses and traders”.
‘Hugely popular’
He added: “It is always a hugely popular event, with visitors from all over the UK coming to enjoy the festive stalls and entertainment.
“The event will also provide a welcome boost to the local visitor economy at such a wonderful time of the year.”
The council said that Beverley’s historic centre will be “transformed into a magical Christmas shopper’s wonderland” for the event.
News of its return has prompted an outpouring of support and excitement with hundreds of locals and visitors commenting on Facebook.
One person posted: “I cannot wait to stand in this market. So excited.”
Another person wrote: “We will be there.”
A third person said: “Can’t wait. This is one of our fave Christmas markets.”
A fourth person was equally excited at the news the market is to return, posting: “Love Beverley. Nice place.”
A fifth said: “Will defo have to go!”
The festival will again be sponsored by The Beverley Arms, part of hospitality company Thwaites.
Rick Bailey, chairman at Thwaites, said: “We’re so proud that The Beverley Arms is once again part of The Beverley Festival of Christmas, it’s such a special celebration that brings the whole town together, showcases the very best of Beverley, and captures the true spirit of the season.”
This year’s event will run from 10am to 4pm on Sunday, December 14.
It will take place over several areas in the town, including Saturday Market, and will also feature a parade to mark the start of the festival.
This year’s event will take place on December 14 in Beverley
