Halloween is out of the way, and this week brings another annual night of bonfires and explosions in the sky as Bonfire Night is nigh upon us. Which can only mean one thing - we are fast approaching the Christmas period for 2025!
Those cold snaps we are about to experience across the North West could be enough to keep even the most intrepid festival explorer indoors, but they also add to the perfect climate for one of the many Christmas markets and events taking place across the region - with some occurring as early as today!
We’ve scoured Facebook and a couple of community events websites to bring you our 15 best Christmas markets and events taking place in the North West so far this year; we’ve also included a number of events that comprise of Christmas Switch Lights-On events that also happen to encompass the market elements of this time of year - bespoke items, fantastic food and in many cases, all for a good community cause.
So what’s caught our eye so far in the North West? Read on to find out and start your Christmas planning a little earlier this year.
9. Blackpool Christmas by the Sea (November 21 - January 4)
This winter, Blackpool’s famous Tower Festival Headland is transformed into a breath-taking festive village. It's a must-visit destination for families and anyone looking to enjoy a unique seaside Christmas experience with festive lights, rides, and stalls. 📍Tower Festival Headland, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 5JA | nw
10. Brindle Distillery Christmas Markets (November 28 - 30 and December 5 - 7)
Experience twinkly lights and festive feels at the distillery's annual Christmas market, held over two weekends. This event features fantastic food stalls, local vendors, mulled wine, and, of course, Cuckoo Gin, offering a great chance to support local producers. 📍Brindle Distillery, Holmes Farm, Sandy Lane, Brindle, Lancashire, PR7 8LZ | Google
11. Christmas Craft Fair at Samlesbury Hall (November 29 and 30)
Celebrate the start of the season with a festive fair weekend inside this beautiful historic hall. Wander through stalls displaying local products from across Lancashire, enjoy mulled wine and mince pies, or grab a hot turkey sandwich. Dottie's Wafflery will also be serving up delicious hot treats. 📍Samlesbury Hall, Preston New road, Samlesbury, Lancashire, PR50UP | Provided
12. Legends Christmas Market (December 5 and 12)
Looking for a Christmas party without breaking the bank? Step into Ewood Park's Legends Lounge as it's transformed into an authentic street food market. Indulge in festive flavours like sizzling bratwurst and loaded mac 'n' cheese, with an in-house DJ setting the perfect party atmosphere. 📍Ewood Park, Nuttall Street, Blackburn, Lancashire, BB2 4JF | Lewis Storey/Getty Images