The Leicester Christmas Market is more of a full winter programme than a single market, with an ice rink, Ferris wheel, funfair, and Santa’s Grotto all running throughout the city. It spreads across several central squares, and the combination of rides and shopping makes it one of the more family-oriented setups in the Midlands.
Leicester Christmas Market 2026
Dates
Status: Confirmed
Leicester dates: 12th November to 27th December 2026
Last checked: July 2026
Update: Dates were announced in June. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of changes.
Source: Verified by Ultimate Christmas Markets via Leicester City Council.
Plan Your Visit
Location and Times
Location: Gallowtree Gate and High Street.
Opening times: 11am to 7pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Travel and Accommodation
Public transport: Buses service the city centre.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. Multi-storey car parks and Park & Ride services are available.
Where to stay: St Martins Lodge is 4 minutes from Town Hall Square.
Amenities and Attractions
Admission: Free.
Locations: Green Dragon Square and Town Hall Square.
Light switch-on: 17th November 2026 at the Clock Tower. Plan your visit.
Santa: Town Hall Square.
Ice skating: Jubilee Square. 27th November to 4th January 2027. Plan your visit.
Ferris wheel: Jubilee Square. 1
Funfair: Humberstone Gate.
Nativity scene: No yet announced.
Christmas tree: By the Clock Tower.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten-free: Limited. Ask individual vendors, but beware of cross-contamination.
Food specialities: Local ales, artisan chocolates, traditional fudge.
Accessibility
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not at the ice skating.
Hotels in the Area
If you’re visiting the city, consider booking a room at St Martins Lodge, a highly-rated, central hotel.
Read our guide to the Christmas markets in the UK.
Event Location Map
Wrapped up your Christmas visit? We’d love to hear about your experience. Share your story and tag photos with #UltimateChristmasMarkets on social media.
What to Expect
Leicester Experiences
- Jubilee Square Ice Rink: Located in the heart of Jubilee Square, the covered ice rink returns from early December to early January. Whether it’s raining or shining, enjoy gliding on the ice.
- Wheel of Light: This 35-metre-high Ferris wheel in Jubilee Square offers stunning views of Leicester, particularly in the evenings when the city is illuminated.
- Billy Bates Fun Fair: Located in Humberstone Gate, this fun fair offers traditional rides and games suitable for all ages, making it a popular choice for family entertainment during the holiday season.
- Santa’s Grotto in Town Hall Square: A free attraction where children can meet Santa and receive a complimentary gift.
- Enlightened Light Trails: A city-wide trail that highlights Leicester’s holiday attractions.
Sustainability Tips
- Reduce Food Waste: Purchase only what you can eat, and consider using apps like Too Good To Go, which let you buy surplus food at reduced prices from some Leicester vendors.
- Ethical Consumption: Support local artisans by choosing handmade, locally sourced, and ethically produced goods from Leicester shops and stalls.
- Transport: Explore Leicester on foot or by bike using the city’s extensive cycle lanes and pedestrian areas. Alternatively, use local bus services as an eco-friendly travel option.
Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.
The Christmas Lights Switch On event for Leicester 2023 is not on the date you have listed (16/11) but 22nd November.
Ok, thanks for letting me know! I will correct the article.