HANDCRAFTED CHRISTMAS: RIPON MARKET SQUARE HOSTS THREE DAYS OF UNIQUE FESTIVE ARTISAN SHOPPING

The historic city of Ripon is set to kick off the festive season in spectacular style as the

Christmas Artisan Market heads to the Market Square for a special three day event, running

from Friday, 21 November to Sunday, 23 November 2025.

In a thriving partnership with Little Bird Markets and Ripon BID, the event will transform

Ripon’s historic Market Square into a Christmas Wonderland. Visitors are invited to explore

a unique collection of the region’s best independent makers, crafters, artists and producers

housed in wooden huts, all while enjoying street entertainment from Calvos, greeting

cheeky Christmas elves, and a special visit from Father Christmas.

Jackie Crozier, founder of Little Bird Markets said, ‘’Ripon is where Little Bird Markets truly

began seven years ago, and it holds a very special place in my heart. Working with Ripon BID

to launch this magical three day Christmas Market is the perfect way to celebrate that

milestone. It’s an unmissable weekend where the whole community can come together to

enjoy the spirit of Christmas, support Yorkshire’s finest artisans, and immerse themselves in

the wonderful atmosphere that only a Ripon market can deliver.’’

“It’s a real pleasure to be working with Little Bird Artisan Markets to bring this vibrant event

to Ripon,” says Lilla Bathurst, Manager of Ripon BID. “We’re passionate about celebrating

the incredible creativity of our local makers and curating experiences that bring people

together. This market is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through collaboration

— with Ripon BID, Little Bird, and the invaluable support of David Skaith, Mayor of York and

North Yorkshire, alongside funding from the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Together, we’re delivering more than just a festive event — we’re boosting footfall,

supporting our high street, and giving people fresh reasons to explore and enjoy our

beautiful city centre. It’s all part of our commitment to Ripon’s future and the wellbeing of

our community.”

We are thrilled to return to the Little Bird Christmas market, seven years after the very first

one, says Liz Hill, owner of Karma, a small business based in Ripon. ‘’We have a fabulous

range of curated gift boxes this year from manifesting your dreams to an Indian foodie style

box. Our Sari Gift wrap, wreaths and Garlands will be coming, as well as items perfect for

filling those stockings!’’

Helen Pickles of Molten Candle Company says, “We’re so excited to be taking part in the

Ripon Christmas Artisan Markets for the first time! We’ve heard such lovely things about the

event and can’t wait to be part of the festive atmosphere with Little Bird Markets. It’s a

wonderful chance to share our hand-poured candles and help people find that perfect cosy

scent or thoughtful gift for Christmas.”

The market is set to boost footfall for Ripon’s high street shops, cafes and hospitality

venues, driving the ‘shop local’ message during the festive period.