With the festive season on its way, of course we’re gearing up for any and all Christmas markets. Manchester Christmas Markets are some of the best in the country, and with them going back to our beloved Albert Square this year, we couldn’t be more excited. Having said that, our own Christmas markets can get very chaotic, and sometimes it’s nice to take a festive trip away – and that’s where The Piece Hall Christmas Market in Halifax comes in.
There are plenty of charming Christmas markets in and around the North West, and with the likes of York and Chester putting on a gorgeous show every year, it’s often difficult to find Christmas markets that are as great as Manchester’s but without the crowds, but The Piece Hall is a little off the beaten track.
Located under an hour from Manchester in the rugged Yorkshire landscape on the way to Brontë country, the market in the centre of Halifax is an absolute hidden gem, with that northern charm we want, but none of the bottlenecks.
What kind of stalls are at Halifax Christmas Market?
Showcasing some of the region’s favourite independent producers and artisan makers, the Piece Hall Christmas Market features a wide range of unique stalls with everything from homeware to jewellery, gifts and delicious food to eat now or take home. Think the classics: mulled wine, mince pies, chocolate, cheese and basically everything you’ll find at the most popular Christmas markets, with less queues and more room to mooch – what’s not to love?
What’s more, The Piece Hall itself houses some of Halifax’s loveliest shops, which are also well worth the visit. Whether you’re looking for homewares, instruments, clothing or anything else, you’ll find a wonderful selection of spots to kickstart your Christmas shopping.
The Piece Hall, Halifax history
The Grade I listed Piece Hall, Halifax is a rare and precious thing, an architectural and cultural phenomenon which is absolutely unique. It is the only remaining Georgian cloth hall in the world, the sole survivor of the great eighteenth century northern cloth halls, a class of buildings which embodied the vital and dominant importance of the trade in hand woven textiles to the pre-industrial economy of the West Riding of Yorkshire, from the Middle Ages through to the early nineteenth century.
Halifax Christmas Light Parade & Light Up Halifax
Usually involving up to 200 costumed characters and attracting thousands, the eagerly awaited walking parade on 15th November will follow a simple route through the heart of Halifax, launching the town’s Christmas festivities in the process – ending at The Piece Hall. Enjoy a full day of festive fun across the town centre – with live entertainment, music, street performers, family activities, and plenty of seasonal sparkle to get you in the Christmas spirit.
When does Halifax Piece Hall Christmas Market take place?
The Halifax Piece Hall Christmas Market take place over six long weekends in the run up to the big day:
- Friday 14 – Sunday 16 November
- Friday 21 – Sunday 23 November
- Friday 28 – Sunday 30 November
- Friday 5 – Sunday 7 December
- Friday 12 – Sunday 14 December
- Friday 19 – Sunday 21 December
(Every Friday – Sunday from 14 November to 21 December/10am – 7pm Fridays and Saturdays, 10am – 4pm Sundays)
Where is The Piece Hall?
📍 The Piece Hall is located at Blackledge, Halifax HX1 1RE.