Festive cheer: the local impacts of Christmas Markets

Christmas markets have become an established feature of the UK festive period. They can attract jobs, activities and visitors into local economies at a time when the usual visitor economy is less active.


This publication presents eight case studies of places where Christmas markets are now a key tourist attraction, and where this has led to increased visitor numbers and economic activity. Whilst anyone who has visited a Christmas market will see the appeal of the variety of stalls on display and the benefits to a local community and place the markets can bring, there is a great deal of planning and hard work required to make the Christmas market a success. This publication highlights key factors which, if implemented well, can lead to a successful Christmas market.