Carlisle is set to glisten this festive season with the launch of two Saturday Christmas themed markets, adding to the city’s regular Friday open-air markets.
Taking place on Saturday 6 December and Saturday 13 December, these special events will offer a seasonal atmosphere with live music, a festive bar, fairground rides, and a wide range of opportunities to shop local and find thoughtful gifts in the lead-up to Christmas.
These festive markets come at a time of exciting change for Carlisle’s city centre. A recent £5.5 million investment has helped refresh over 5,000 square metres of public space, with improvements including new paving, street furniture, feature lighting, and natural stone details. The Greenmarket has also been redesigned to serve as a dedicated space for events, helping to bring people together in the heart of the city.
Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Carlisle’s festive markets are a wonderful way to celebrate the season and support our local businesses. With the newly revitalised city centre and a programme full of music, food, and family fun, we’re creating a vibrant space for people to come together and enjoy everything our community has to offer.
“As we head into the festive season, we are encouraging everyone to shop local and support businesses across our area. It’s a great way to keep money in the local economy and discover something unique in the lead-up to Christmas.”
There’s always something to enjoy at Cumberland’s local markets - a great mix of fresh produce, handmade crafts, gifts, clothing, and more. It’s a good way to shop local, support small businesses, and spend time in the heart of our towns.
Market Days are regularly held across the Cumberland area:
• Keswick Market – Thursdays and Saturdays
• Silloth Market – Every Thursday (Easter to October)
• Wigton Market – Fridays
• Workington Market – Wednesdays and Saturdays
• Carlisle Open-Air Market – Fridays at the newly refurbished Greenmarket and Market Square
Cumberland Council is on the lookout for passionate traders to join our markets across Cumberland, including the exciting Christmas events in Carlisle. If you offer unique gifts, seasonal produce, or handmade crafts, please contact [email protected] to express your interest. Spaces are limited and we expect a good level of interest.
The new food court area at Carlisle’s historic Market Hall is also set to reopen this week (Saturday 22 November), marking the next step in plans to refresh the city centre. This redevelopment is part of a wider initiative to revitalise the city centre and create even more opportunities for local businesses to thrive.
Carlisle Market Hall will also host their Festive Fun Day on Saturday 6 December. Santa will be joined by Jason the Juggling Jester, Gilly the Facepainter, Clowns Douglas and Tammi (Double Trouble), and a few elves.