York Christmas Festival – 2017

16 Nov – 22 Dec 2017

Soak up the city’s medieval charm and scents of spiced mulled wine this season, as fairs, family fun and festival flavours transform York into a festive fairytale.

Discover the delights of the iconic St Nicholas Fair, don some skates at the Ice Factor or spend a night in the stalls for playful panto fun. Immersed in tradition and bustling with activity, the historic streets of York come alive during the wonderful winter months. We’ve got the season wrapped up with all the information you need for the ultimate Christmas experience in York.

St Nicholas Fair

St Nicholas Christmas Market

Meander through the magical market stalls of St Nicholas Fair and delight in a truly special shopping experience. Wander inside traditional chalets adorned with twinkling lights and follow the aromas of mulled wine and tempting treats to the new Yorkshire Barn for a taste of yule themed Yorkshire fodder.

York Ice Trail

9 – 10 Dec, 10:00 – 17:00 daily

Get ready for an icy adventure at the biggest outdoor ice trail in the UK! For one weekend the Ice Trail will transform York into a sparkling ice sculpture city.

This year there are even more carvings to find, with 45 frosty figures formed from crystal-clear ice sprinkled across the city and at Monks Cross & Vangarde. Can you find the 2 metre tall ‘Mighty Viking’ and spot the ‘Night King’ from Game of Thrones? There’ll also be the chance to win some fantastic festive prizes – and don’t forget to pick up your free Ice Trail explorers badge from our Visitor Information Centre and market chalet! Get them while you can as stock is limited.

Warm up with street food and sip mulled wine as you decide which statue is your next stop. The Ice Trail is a favourite in York’s festive calendar and will be the icing on top of your Christmas adventure in York.

Live Sculpting

Ever wondered how the sculptures are made? Glacial Art, the team behind the York Ice Trail sculptures, will be performing live demonstrations at St Helen’s Square from 3pm each day.

Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland

18 Nov 2017 – 7 Jan 2018

yorkshires-winter-wonderland

The FOUR-time award-winning festive event is back and it’s bigger than ever!

Home to the North of England’s largest outdoor ice rink – The Ice Factor will boast its biggest rink ever, at an astounding 975 square metres! With its iconic 30ft high Christmas tree, the rink and its surroundings will once again be inspired by the magic of Christmas.

Recently voted York’s Family Friendly Experience, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland will be welcoming new additions to this year’s festivities in the form of an alpine skate hire chalet with rinkside views and a stunning new Polar Express themed Grotto for Santa.

With vintage funfair rides dating from as early as 1933, Santa welcoming visitors in his enchanting log cabin, live weekend entertainment and of course Christmas shopping at York Designer Outlet with designer brands for up to 60% less, Yorkshire’s Winter Wonderland really does have something for everyone.