Manchester’s Christmas Markets & Zippy the Santa are back in Albert Square in 2025 after refurbishment delays.
Albert Square held the Christmas Markets before, with Zippy, a Father Christmas, watching over everything. Zippy and the markets left after 2019 because the refurbishment made them move.
Work should finish in 2026, but the council wants to speed things up because they are enlarging and pedestrianising Albert Square. Christmas events can therefore start sooner.
The mayor, Andy Burnham, spoke, saying the reopening will be a city-wide event. While he doubts it will be the full market, he still thinks it will be a celebration.
The restoration faced delays as workers found many problems inside. The finish date is now August 2026, costing £76 million more.
Garry Bridges, deputy council leader, knows people want the town hall back. He has said it will be better than ever, and they are excited about its return.
Bridges also said they will have a “festive attraction” in 2025, with more details to come later. Market stalls may appear at events. The square will rival others in Europe.
Bridges also mentions piloting Christmas events, with a permanent opening happening next year. A formal reopening is planned. The council will celebrate in September 2027, marking the building’s 150th birthday.