Victoria Baths in Manchester is set to usher in the festive season with its annual Festive Winter Fair on Sunday, December 1. This one-day event, which runs from 11 am to 4 pm, promises an authentic Christmas shopping experience, bringing together seasonal decor, local artisans, and a heartwarming community spirit under the iconic glass ceilings of the historic Baths.
Decked out for the holidays, Victoria Baths transforms into a winter wonderland, offering 50 carefully selected stalls with handmade and unique gifts from Manchester’s finest artisans. Everything from intricate ceramics and glassware to stylish jewellery and sustainable fashion will be on display, providing the perfect mix of gifts for family, friends, and loved ones. Visitors can expect to find beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces, such as Al Bishop Ceramics’ festive mugs and ornaments and Dappled Sky’s quirky, character-inspired ceramics. Florals are another highlight, with Penny & Petals offering fresh and dried flower arrangements and Cute Things By Aggie preserving blooms in resin for decorative items.
The Festive Winter Fair also spotlights the community spirit of Victoria Baths. Alongside the shopping, visitors will enjoy carols sung by local choirs and can indulge in seasonal treats like mulled wine and mince pies served in the Baths’ Tea Room. Foodies will appreciate Top Nosh’s artisan jams, chutneys, and festive truffles, as well as Winding River Liqueurs & Distillery’s small-batch creations, perfect for holiday gatherings.
In keeping with the season’s spirit of giving, the fair will serve as a collection point for Trafford Domestic Abuse Services and Manchester Central Foodbank, inviting visitors to donate unwrapped gifts or non-perishable food items. By doing so, guests can help brighten the holidays for those in need while supporting the preservation of the Baths through their entry fee. Each ticket helps sustain the work of Victoria Baths Trust, which maintains the Grade II* listed building as a cultural venue for the community.
Tickets are available in advance for £4 (or £3 without a donation). For those who want to explore the Baths’ architectural beauty, a combined entry and tour ticket is available for £10. Additional details and tickets can be found on the Victoria Baths website at victoriabaths.org.uk.
The Festive Winter Fair is more than just a market; it’s an opportunity to enjoy the season’s traditions while supporting local artisans and the enduring legacy of Victoria Baths.