It’s that time of year when markets really capture our hearts and minds. Manchester’s huge Christmas Markets are on their way, and plenty of alternative spots have been announced, and now Manchester’s champions of independent food and drink, GRUB, are bringing a brand new festive experience to the city centre this winter with Christmas at St. John’s, transforming the area into a lively winter hideaway filled with fire, flavour and festive fun.
At the heart of it all is an elevated food experience that goes far beyond the traditional Christmas market. GRUB will showcase a revolving line-up of the North’s most exciting chefs and street food traders, serving unique festive dishes you won’t find anywhere else in Manchester.
Christmas at St. John’s is designed to feel authentic, exciting and completely different from the usual city centre offering. The focus will be on quality, authenticity and spectacle, creating a place to eat and drink with a festive experience like no other.
What to expect at Christmas at St John’s
- Eight rotating street food traders serving unique festive specials from Manchester’s
favourite chefs and collaborators. GRUB are bringing a revolving lineup of the North’s most exciting names, including: Jim’s Table, Soots, Knights BBQ, BAB and Slowpo from
Akin Club. - A spectacular Feuerzangenbowle bar, where flaming mulled wine takes centre stage, with pop-ups from resident favourites Trading Route and Stables Tavern alongside wine specialist Good Wines and craft brewers Verdant.
- A cosy new 200 capacity heated tent and 60 metre custom-built event sheds hosting eight independent traders on Grape Street.
- The chance for local residents to reserve and collect your Christmas tree in the middle of the city.
- A daily mix of live entertainment, including Matty White’s festive food quiz, comedy nights, alternative choirs, and more.
Food & drink at Christmas at St John’s
Food sits at the centre of the event. GRUB’s team will bring together a curated rotation of traders delivering a high quality, festive dining experience that feels special every time you visit. Expect open flame cooking, hand rolled pasta, aromatic tandoor dishes, indulgent desserts, GRUB’s take on the classic bratwurst and nostalgic Christmas comfort food. A fresh take on festive dining, powered by Manchester’s best independents.
Confirmed food partners will be announced soon, featuring some of the most exciting chefs and independent traders from across the North. Keep an eye on GRUB’s socials for the full line-up closer to the time, these traders won’t be around forever, so don’t miss your chance to try them.
The drinks experience will bring together a mix of local favourites and creative pop-ups, all set within a warm and atmospheric setting. Visitors can gather around long tables inside the tent, sharing drinks with friends while soaking up the festive atmosphere, or step outside and gather around the crackling fire pit. Expect everything from cosy tavern vibes to theatrical cocktails and fiery winter warmers, each designed to make the experience feel memorable and unique.
Entertainment & activities
Beyond food and drink, the event will feature a full programme of entertainment and activity designed to keep visitors coming back week after week. Expect festive quizzes, live comedy, alternative choir performances, creative workshops, storytelling sessions and family-friendly events throughout the season.
Visitors can also take part in unique festive shopping experiences such as Christmas tree collections and curated indie hampers that champion Manchester’s best local makers.
When does Christmas at St John’s start & where is it?
Christmas at St. John’s launches on Thursday 20th November 2025 – open Wednesday to Sunday weekly until Sunday 21st December 2025.
📍 Goods Yard St, Manchester M3 3BG.