Last weekend I was over visiting one of my best friends in Manchester and it’s becoming a tradition for me to visit her during late November/December so that we can go to the Manchester Christmas Markets to get in the festive spirit. So I thought I’d do a little guide of what to see as part of #Blogmas! Now you might have visited the Christmas markets in Dublin… to be honest when I did I was a little underwhelmed to say the least – there wasn’t much going on and it didn’t have any atmosphere going for it. In comparison… the MCMs are amazing. They sprawl out all over the city centre, have proper German-style taverns for mulled wine and food where you can sit and people watch. And the food… the food stalls alone are worth going for!
There’s 8 locations all over the city with over 200 stalls, with the main markets being located on Albert Square and St. Ann’s Square with additional markets on Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, King Street, Spinningfields and Brazennose Street. There’s different atmosphere at each but my favorite is Albert Square. That’s where the best food is. Gluhwein, apple strudels, German sausages, pulled pork sandwiches, soups, chocolate covered strawberries, mini-pancakes… NOM NOM NOM.
When you order a cherry beer or Gluhwein or any other festive drink from the numerous taverns or stalls, you have to pay a deposit on the mug/glass (usually a pound or two) but don’t forget to bring them back afterwards to get your money back! Alternatively you can keep them as a souvenir if you like! There are tons of stalls selling everything and anything so you’ll definitely find something that you’ll like! Handmade soaps, paper lanterns, silk scarves, bird feeders, the Predator alien made out of metal pieces… something to suit everyone.
I’d highly recommend grabbing your chunky knitted festive jumpers and heading over to Manchester before Christmas if you can, if not this year than definitely next year! The tickets from Dublin are really reasonable especially if you book them in advance, the flight takes about 35 minutes so it’s a super easy trip to make. Plus there are numerous stalls there with unique Christmas presents to tick a few people off your list & the majority of shops are cheaper than their Irish counterparts. Screw you euro.
Next year I’d love to visit a real German Christmas market in Germany, any suggestions on where’s the best city to visit?
