For years now, Christmas markets having been popping up every winter in town centres across the UK. An idea that borrows heavily from German customs, such markets have now become ubiquitous and very much a part of most peoples' Christmas experience.

Manchester is a city that has become particularly famous for its Christmas market, which grows every year and is often considered one of the best Christmas markets in the north of England. Many people enjoy wandering through the quaint chalet-lined streets where all sorts of top quality gifts and food stuffs can be purchased.

The Manchester Christmas market can be a wonderful place to start your evening with friends over a mug of mulled wine. It is also a great place to pick up unique festive gifts or can just be an interesting spot to relax after a hard day's shopping. The Christmas market takes place right at the heart of Manchester, in Albert Square, right in front of the majestic town hall.

There are a huge range of stalls covering all sorts of gifts and produce, including mouth-watering delicacies from all over Europe. You can sample sweet and savoury treats from Dutch mini pancakes and Hungarian goulash, to Spanish paella and French profiteroles. There are also plenty of drinks to refresh you or warm you up. The kids might enjoy a hot chocolate while you and friends may fancy sampling German or Spanish beer. Alternatively, French wine may be more up your street.

Furthermore, European and local producers offer everything from fine amber jewellery, handcrafted leather bags and top quality bonsais trees, to Dutch cheeses, French breads and Spanish chorizo.

During your visit to the Christmas market you can also enjoy the music played by the many buskers, who are encouraged to play and bring a festive spirit to proceedings. This festive atmosphere can really be the perfect way to soak up a rich yuletide feeling and get you in the mood for a fantastic Christmas.

Manchester marks the festive season's arrival with its annual Christmas light ceremony in November. Every year a celebrity guest switches on the lights and entertainment is provided by local bands and artists, with live music and mass sing-alongs creating a warm atmosphere despite the cold weather. Along with the official turning-on of the Christmas lights, there is two hours of entertainment for the enthusiastic crowds in Albert Square. The event is seen by many as the official beginning of Christmas.

After enjoying the Manchester Christmas market, visitors to the city can stay the night and make a mini-holiday out of the occasion. There are many Manchester hotels to choose from. To help guarantee that your stay is an enjoyable one, it may be useful to look around online for the best prices and services prior to booking transportation, accommodation and meals during your stay in Manchester.

Dave MacKinder writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.