St Nicholas Fair FAQs
What are the opening times for St Nicholas Fair?
St Nicholas Fair opens on 17th November until 23rd December from 10am to 7pm daily.
What traders are at St Nicholas Fair this year?
You can find the full list of traders at St Nicholas Fair here.
Is there a Residents Discount offered at this year’s St Nicholas Fair?
All traders at this year’s St Nicholas Fair will be offering exclusive discounts for York residents when presented with a valid York Card or identity card that proves York residency. If presenting an identity card, this must clearly state 'York' (e.g. driving licence or older person's bus pass). Each trader will offer a discount ranging from 10 to 30% discounts, more details can be found here.
Will there be Christmas lights in York this year?
Yes. The Christmas lights display is a partnership between York BID and Make It York, who jointly fund the scheme. The light scheme has a new supplier this year, after the existing contract expired. This means the updated scheme will see more lights, new technology and new areas lit up across the city. All displays use more sustainable LED lights, and solar technology where possible. The new contract has also allowed the scheme to be extended to areas like George Hudson Street, Castlegate and Nessgate. The curtain of lights on York’s historic bar walls will remain, along with the magical ‘Tree of Light’ at the Eye of York with its 1km of twinkly LED lights which change colour to mark important dates and festivals.
Is there a light switch-on event this year?
This year we celebrate the 30th Anniversary of St Nicholas Fair and a special event is planned to mark this milestone on the opening day of the Christmas Markets. From 12pm to 9pm on 17th November, there will be free entertainment across the city centre - from bands, choirs, performers, workshops and more. Christmas festivities will be spread across the city centre, with family-friendly entertainment to get everyone into the festive spirit and see the city lit up for the first time.
Is there parking at St Nicholas Fair?
If you’re visiting the York Christmas Markets please consider walking, cycling or using public transport. Plan your journey and get the latest travel information at www.itravelyork.info
What measures are in place to protect York from terrorism over the festive period?
Protective security barriers are installed across the city for the duration of the Christmas Markets. The temporary barriers are necessary to protect people attending and working in the Christmas Markets, and the visitors and residents enjoying the city over the festive season.
I don't feel comfortable visiting the Christmas Market, how can I still get involved in the festivities?
A virtual Christmas market will run on visityork.org throughout the whole festive season. The online market is a great opportunity to bring the magic of St Nicholas Fair into the comfort of your own home, whilst also supporting York's traders, retailers and attractions.
I have accessibility needs and would like to attend the Christmas Markets, how can I find out more about planning my visit?
Make It York is proud to organise many free events and festivals throughout the year for residents and visitors to enjoy. We are committed to ensuring that everyone can participate, with access requirements in place to support with additional needs. Our accessibility guide to St Nicholas Fair can be found here. If you would like to discuss access requirements for St Nicholas Fair, please email events@makeityork.com
What measures are in place to make the Christmas Markets more sustainable?
York Christmas Markets operates a no single-use plastic policy and using energy saving electrical technology such as LED lighting. You can find out more about our commitment to sustainability and measures in place here.