Date for Christmas market and ice rink revealed

The market will consist of more than 60 decorated chalets

The date for the opening of this year's Christmas Market and outdoor ice rink in Leeds city centre has been announced.

Leeds City Council confirmed the popular festive attraction would return to City Square along with the winter wonderland offering in Millennium Square on 21 November.

The authority said last year's Christmas activities brought the city centre's busiest day for footfall in five years.

Councillor Jonathan Pryor said it was a "huge time" for the local economy and added: "We're excited to be welcoming Christmas back to Leeds this November and hope this gives the whole city something to look forward to."

The ice rink will be located in Millennium Square

The market is operated by Market Place, which runs similar events across the country, and the council does not pay to host it or profit from it.

Last year a new layout was introduced with the event concentrated in City Square and Millennium Square as opposed to being spread across 13 different locations.

The council said as well festive food and drink stalls, there would be winter-themed rides and attractions including the Golden Gallopers carousel and 110ft Ferris wheel.

The City Square market will run until 21 December and the ice rink, stalls and attractions will be open until New Year's Eve.

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