Leeds Christmas Market returns on 11th November at the Corn Exchange. For a festive seven weeks, the lower ground floor has been transformed and is ready to welcome visitors for food, drink, shopping, masterclasses and games.
Organisers Rolling Social Events (the brains behind Leeds Rum, Whisky and Tequila festivals) have teamed up with Dijon Boys and Latitude Wines, the former providing an alternative Christmas menu with festive inspiration – such as braised ox cheek stew with polenta mash and braised red cabbage, embutido stuffing sandwiches with sauerkraut and gravy, and harissa spiced winter veg pastilla.
Cameron Sohel from Dijon Boys: “The past few months have been really busy for us and we were just about to start our next project when Lee approached us, but we couldn’t pass up the opportunity. So many Christmas menus are the same everywhere you go – we wanted to put our distinctive Dijon Boys twist on it – we’re all about big, punchy flavours. I think we’ve really done that with this menu.”
In addition to the Dijon Boys residency, there’ll be a rotation of independent food traders, including Don’t Feed The Dog and Shouk.
Latitude Wines will be hosting masterclasses in the experience room, talking guests through a range of speciality spirits including Filey Bay whisky and Woodford Reserve bourbon. Please book to secure your place via the website.
Chris Nolan from Latitude: “We are looking forward to showcasing some of our products at this year’s Christmas Market. We’ve got a great selection to choose from so come and have a chat. And if you like what you try, there’s the option to buy a bottle. Perfect for a Christmas present or just to treat yourself.”
There is space to seat 200 people, a tasting room, a main bar area, food traders, Christmas stalls from Mahogany Market and Indie Makers, as well as live music from local artists such as The Pretend Beatles, Matt Baxter and Hayley Gaftarnick. Sing along to your seasonal favourites with Lucy’s Pop Choir and Joy Choir.
A spokesperson from Leeds Corn Exchange: “We are delighted to welcome the Christmas Market back to Leeds Corn Exchange for a second year. As a champion for independent retail, we’re excited to support even more small and local businesses this holiday season. Rolling Social brought the party to the Corn Exchange last year, so we’re really looking forward to indulging in more festive fun this Christmas.”
Private hire and corporate bookings are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays – make enquiries to: [email protected]
Lee Jones, Director of Rolling Social Events: “We can’t wait to do it all again – last year was a bit of an experiment to see how things would work. This year is going to be even better. We’re proud to be part of the independent scene in Leeds. There are so many fantastic traders in the City – we’re in good company. More than ever this year, we wanted to create an accessible experience for everyone in Leeds to celebrate the holiday season. Who knows what things are going to look like this winter with the cost of living crisis? I think we all need something to look forward to.”
The Christmas Market is open Friday to Sunday 11.30 a.m. until 8pm.
Photographs provided by Chapter81.
