The first signs of autumn might have only just appeared (and barely), but whether we like it or not, it’s time to welcome the return of Bristol’s annual festive events – starting with the beloved Christmas markets, with Bristol Christmas Market back soon for 2023.
Making its grand return on November 3, the sprawling annual event is set to return to the Broadmead shopping district in Bristol City Centre, alongside plenty of festive events and entertainment for locals to enjoy. Bigger and better than ever before, this year’s market will expand to Quakers Friars too and will run for seven very festive weeks, coming to an official close on December 23.
During its run, visitors will get to peruse the offerings of over 50 festive stalls packed full of gifts, festive treats, unique crafts, and more, alongside numerous bars and food stalls. With festive stalls open from 10am to 7pm, and food stalls and bars open from 10am to 10pm.
This year’s bar offering will include the Jäger Barn Bar on Broadmead Piazza, which will be complete with proper Bavarian vibes, and stocked with festive tipples such as German Glühwein and boozy hot chocolates. Additionally, the bar will play host to plenty of live music, so guests can get the proper Bavarian experience.
Visitors will also be able to visit the Cider Bar on the opposite side of the market to the Jäger Barn Bar, alongside the twinkling Alpine Huette – which will be complete with plenty of covered, al fresco seating. And in the centre of it all? A dazzling 30ft Christmas tree!
This year, the market will also be home to Christmas Igloos and Ski Gondolas – which guests can book out with their friends to enjoy Bratwurst platters, charcuterie boards, cheese boards, and festive tipples. These cost £10 to hire in the week, £20 on Friday evenings and weekends – plus extra if you decide to add food and drink packages.
In terms of filling your tum, the markets will offer a ton of variety – from viral Yorkshire pudding wraps and warming Asian noodles, to classic Bratwurst, traditional hog roast, and plenty of proper crepes with fillings of your choice.
New this year at Bristol Christmas Market 2023 is a 15m high Ferris wheel, letting you rise above it all and witness the glittery sights of the market down below. There will also be a candy-themed escape room and a reindeer sleigh ride, as well as two large snow machines guaranteeing Bristol has a white Christmas this year.
Throughout the seven weeks, guests will also be able to immerse themselves in plenty of live entertainment, with the promise of multiple appearances from the Big Man himself (Santa, that is, not The Rock), elves on stilts, and performances from Christmas choirs.