People visiting the city centre between November 27 to December 14 will be transported to the scene of a winter fairytale with stallholders, charities and catering suppliers offering artisan food, drinks and gifts in twinkling chalets.
Bath Christmas Market was founded in 2001 and started as a collection of local businesses and artisans who all came together to welcome in the festive period.
Since then, it has evolved to become one of the UK’s most beloved festive events that last year saw an estimated 444,000 visitors create a £60.4m turnover for businesses, support for more than 500 jobs and a £48.9m associated spend in the city.
The council began running the Christmas Market in 2021 and this year, more than 250 businesses, 65% of which are from Bath and surrounding areas, will join the 2025 event with six Christmas Carts showcasing Bath and Bristol-based micro-businesses.
Sustainability measures are an important part of the market with stallholders required to use biodegradable packaging and re-use decorations wherever possible.
New for this year is a reindeer trail around the outside the footprint of the market, encouraging visitors to explore more of the double-UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bath and its wide-ranging retailers offering something for every budget.
Daily Park & Ride bus services will be running at an increased frequency during the Christmas Market and timetables will be published nearer the time. Staff will be present at all Park & Ride sites and central stops throughout the Christmas Market period to support queuing and ticket sales.
Councillor Manda Rigby, Cabinet Member for Communications and Community, said: “The 25th anniversary of Bath Christmas Market is a proud moment for the city as we reflect on how the event has grown in popularity. We know the event has an impact on people living in the city and would like to thank you for your cooperation and support each year.
“Although the market is a large-scale event with traders joining us from the wider region, it also helps local businesses with their growth and resilience. It’s a significant boost for the local economy, creating seasonal jobs and bringing extra vitality to the heart of the city.
“This year we’re encouraging local residents to explore the market at a more relaxed pace during weekdays when the market is quieter. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, sampling local food or simply soaking up the seasonal ambience, we look forward to welcoming you.”
The special preview evening for residents returns on Wednesday, November 26 from 5pm to 7pm. Residents who hold a Discovery Card are eligible for discount at all chalets, Monday to Friday. Offers will be on display in each chalet and listed on the website. Discovery Card holders are also eligible for free heritage visits and discounts on a range of other purchases in B&NES, all year round.
People with sensory needs or who would like a calmer experience can take advantage of quieter shopping periods from 10am to 12pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with no entertainment scheduled between these times. There will also be a quiet and warm space available at Bath Central Library over the Christmas period.
Visit the market’s social media accounts for updates about the Christmas Market: