Leeds Christmas Market on City Square set to be transformed as new operator announced

A new operator has been announced to transform the Leeds Christmas Market on City Square.

Leeds City Council has appointed the creators of the popular seasonal pop-up bars, THOR'S tipi as the new operator of Leeds Christmas Market on City Square. The market will run from mid-November, forming part of the wider city centre Christmas offer, alongside Ice Cube at Christmas on Millennium Square.

THOR’S tipi will create a ‘distinctly Yorkshire’ retail, craft and food market which celebrates Leeds identity. With a Yorkshire based line-up, full of popular local names, including some exciting Leeds Street Food heroe.! A series of cabins will also be reserved for local craft businesses, emerging artisans and more.

“This is our eleventh year in Leeds and we’re super excited to bring the most beautiful Christmas Market to City Square,” said Amanda Monaghan, Director of THOR’S tipi.

“We’re especially looking forward to speaking with local traders about how we can showcase their talents. Get in touch if you’d like to be involved! We’d love to have you on-board.”

Alongside plenty of shopping and eating options, the Christmas Market will become a full-on-festive experience for visitors. With Winter games and karaoke huts in an Alpine Lodge, the original THOR’S tipi - complete with its signature firepit seating area, free live music from local artists, school choirs and community performances throughout the season.

There will also be a host of family-friendly events, including a ‘Leeds Night Before Christmas’ trail, family raves and free craft tables.

This market will be built with locals in mind. All street food traders will offer an £8 option and Leeds residents will receive 10 per cent off all retail and craft cabins.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council's executive member for economy, said: “We're delighted that Leeds will be welcoming a Christmas market again this year with a new look and that visitors will once again have the chance to experience the wonders of the festive season at the heart of the city centre.

“As always, the council is committed to working with partners and providers to bring high quality and exciting events to the city. We know Christmas is always a special time in Leeds, and this year is set to be a memorable one.”

City Square will be transformed into an immersive festive wonderland for the Christmas Season. With illuminated archways featuring a new "Yorkshire Rose Snowflake”, 150 Christmas trees and festoon lighting to line walkways, and for extra fun, the city's iconic statues will be adorned with tinsel.

More details, including dates, traders and opening times will be announced in due course.