Posted 24 Oct 2011
When the chill winds of winter start to blow, the English City of Manchester pours out the warmth with Winter Wonderland events that get the whole town in the holiday spirit. As the calendar nears the Christmas season, the Manchester Christmas Markets swing into full gear beginning with the pound Christmas lighting ceremony held on Thursday, November 17.
The Manchester Christmas Markets, held at various locations throughout the city, are so popular they were received the Large Tourism Award in 2010. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM until December 21, crowds flock to the festive atmosphere created by the chalet-style booths trimmed in holiday decor that line the streets. Shoppers can even joined groups with rented coaches to avoid parking.
Shoppers are delighted to find unique Christmas gifts from all over the world available from artisans who bring their hand-crafted wares to the Manchester Christmas Markets. Local musicians and actors lend their talents to ramp up the holiday spirit by providing carolers, street performances and staged shows. Children have a chance to have their picture taken with to Santa Claus while whispering their gift wishes in his ear.
Many attendees at the Manchester Christmas Markets are lured by the promise of delicious winter fare, hot mulled wine and warm imported beers. Dutch mini-pancakes are a favorite sweet treat while shoppers ready to eat hearty dive into the Spanish paella dishes and Hungarian goulash.
Appropriate local businesses offer Winter Wonderland parties on their rooftops, an especially wonderful vantage point right after a snowfall has blanketed this already scenic city. They serve up warm dishes, hot drinks and lively entertainment that add to the holiday cheer all over the city. Businesses around the Christmas market also offer seasonal promotions, dining specials and entertainments that tie in with a holiday theme. If you are planning on making the trip here at Christmas and need a hotel, check out the
Leonardo Hotel's range of
Manchester hotels.
