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FIND OUT MOREA Christmas classic
Grim up North? Wake up and smell the Gluhwein - Manchester's Christmas Markets are coming back for another year of delicious festive cheer.
You know Christmas is just around the corner when Manchester city centre is taken over by clusters of traditional wooden chalets and twinkling stalls offering fabulous gifts and taste-bud tempting treats from across Europe.
Launched in 1999 as the result of a partnership between Manchester Markets and Tourismus & Congress Frankfurt, Germany, the markets are now considered to be some of the best in Europe, drawing visitors to the city from far and wide.
According to a 2005 economic impact study, more than 1.2 million people made a purchase at the markets, spending £11.4 million on site and an additional £21.5 million on things like accommodation, sightseeing and travel in Manchester.
Yes, they really are that popular and it is not difficult to see why. The glorious festive atmosphere created by a myriad of Christmas lights and decorations; the nostalgia evoked by the traditional wooden chalets; the unique display of arts and crafts items; the tantalising smell of sizzling bratwurst, freshly made crêpes and steaming hot chocolate; the million sounds of the city; the backdrop of Manchester's magnificent architecture; all these elements combine to create a much-loved Christmas classic.
"I think the success of the Christmas Markets is down to two main factors," says Krys Zasada, head of Manchester Markets. "Firstly, we ensure really high quality standards, so people know they will find really good quality products, and secondly, we try to keep it fresh, so we are always on the lookout for new ideas, new traders and new product lines."
The markets return on Nov 15 until Dec 19 and, with around 350 traders taking part, they are bigger than ever.
"This year we are really focusing on developing Brazennose Street," continues Zasada. "We expanded the market down there last year for the first time, and now we want to make sure that it's a really strong offer.
"Meanwhile, we have some exciting new additions in Albert Square. We have a new Spanish food unit and they are helping to bring flamenco dancers and guitarists to the square; we have Selfridges, one of the city's top retailers, taking part with a chalet promoting food, clothes and accessories; and Marketing Manchester is also using the Christmas Markets to promote its new Manchester merchandise range.
"Another important development is that Albert Square will host a much bigger number of UK-based arts and crafts traders this year, and for the first time they are staying for the duration of the Christmas Markets."
This year, Manchester's Christmas Markets are spreading across five central locations. Here is a quick look at what is happening where:
Albert Square, daily, 10am - 9pm
Situated directly in front of the impressive town hall, Albert Square hosts the ever-growing European Christmas Market. Here you can enjoy tasty treats like continental sausages, spiced Glühwein, Bavarian beer, crêpes and a wide range of other tempting foods and drinks. And you can stock up on authentic continental specialities like wild boar and duck sausages, cheeses, marinated olives, artichokes and figs, which could add a bit of fun to the traditional Christmas dinner.
Recently added attractions include a giant Christmas pyramid with nativity scene, which sits on top of the German Beer Tent, and the magical Alpine House, which features a giant multilingual talking reindeer.
This year, look out for Selfridges and Marketing Manchester, both of which will have a chalet in Albert Square. And don't forget to visit a new gift-wrapping chalet, which will be run by Smooth Radio, with all proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Support.
Brazennose Street, daily, 10am - 8pm
Introduced in 2006, the World Market on Brazennose Street (directly opposite Albert Square) features 24 stalls, an eating area and a Wine House for visitors who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Albert Square.
St Ann's Square, daily, 10am - 8pm
This picturesque square in the heart of Manchester's shopping district hosts a traditional German Christmas Market, with 30 stalls selling wooden toys and decorations.
Exchange Street, daily, 10am - 8pm
Adjoining St Ann's Square, Exchange Street will come alive with 12 arts and crafts stalls selling a delightful selection of handmade gifts.
New Cathedral Street, daily, 10am - 8pm
For more arts and crafts visit New Cathedral Street, along the walkway between Selfridges and Harvey Nichols. Here you will find 24 stalls and a new, purpose-built wooden Glühwein House with a 40-capacity seating area.