'Tis the season to be jolly' Carlisle Christmas markets begin in city

The city centre open-air market, based in the pedestrianised shopping area, will be held until Sunday, December 11.

In this first year of the new Christmas Market, traders have come together to offer residents and visitors to Carlisle a merry Christmas.

Open daily, the market features over 40 Alpine style chalets selling a wide range of gifts, crafts, food and drink.

Featuring local and visiting traders there is a variety of Christmas favourites on offer: giant bratwurst from the iconic German Schwenkegrill; an exotic selection of ostrich, wild boar and crocodile burgers; Italian macaroons; traditional hot Glühwein; and cheeses and chutneys.

Amongst the wonderful smells and tastes of the food stalls, traditionally decorated chalets are selling artisan craft products perfect as unique gifts and stocking fillers.

Cllr Stephen Higgs, Portfolio holder for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “Successful Christmas Markets attract visitors from across the UK and have become a significant contributor to the local economy of the towns and cities that host them.

“We are confident the Carlisle Christmas Market will quickly establish itself as a leading festive attraction in the city and will add to our wonderful seasonal calendar of events.”

For more information and to find out about other Carlisle festive events, visit the discover Carlisle website.

Opening times for the market this week are Wednesday, December 7: 10am until 6pm, Thursday December 8: 10am until 8pm which includes late night shopping in the city centre, Friday December 9 and Saturday December 10: 10am until 8pm and Sunday 11 December: 10am until 6pm.

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