Warrington is the place to be this Christmas thanks to a host of festive markets, family-friendly events and, new for this year...an outdoor ice rink! With great shops and places to meet, eat and drink, it’s no wonder more people are staying closer to home and supporting their hometown when present buying, partying and spending quality time with friends and families.

Warrington Guardian:

Whether it’s shopping for the perfect party outfit or gifts for all the family – Warrington has a great mix of big stores, global brands and local independent traders to meet all your festive needs.

Golden Square shopping centre offers late night shopping every Thursday and free parking on Sundays. It has over 100 top name brands under one roof including Debenhams, Topshop, Primark, Schuh, Warehouse, Oasis, New Look and River Island. We are also lucky that Warrington attracts young aspirational brands like Lush, Disney Store and Paperchase.

The award-winning Warrington Market offers everything from fish to Fairtrade and the famous footwear transformation station.  Pop in and see the giant advent calendar! A busy programme of events includes a Geeky Christmas Market on Saturday, November 30, perfect for those who love sci-fi and collectibles.

The Warrington Christmas Market (December 7 and 8) will bring together the best in Christmas goods, from wreaths, mulled wine, hot food and crafts. There will also be live entertainment and activities throughout the weekend.

For those looking for a greener Christmas, Sustainable Living will return to Warrington Market on the December 14. Join them on the mezzanine floor from 10am for a selection of eco-friendly, vegan and sustainable traders offering the very latest in eco produce for climate conscious consumers.

Cockhedge Shopping Centre is an out of town retail experience that’s in the heart of town! You can hop across from the high street or take advantage of generous parking right outside a good range of well-known stores for all your Christmas essentials including B&M Bargains, Asda and Argos. Traditional Christmas market chalet huts will be outside from December 7-15 – with local makers and bakers showcasing craft gifts and delicious foodie treats.

Warrington Guardian:

For the first time in Warrington, you can skate on real ice with family and friends at this new winter attraction provided by Icescape at Golden Square, sponsored by Warrington BID. Glide under the beautiful Victorian Grade II Listed iron-framed canopy in the Old Market Place and enjoy the festive atmosphere, whatever the weather, open daily until January 5.

Warrington Guardian:

The Cockhedge Christmas Fun Day takes place on Saturday, December 14, with a giant snow globe for fun and photos and a pop-up grotto with Santa, his elves and even a friendly Christmas bear character to entertain the children.

The big man himself is in town between Monday and Sunday, December 16-22 when Santa and his sleigh visit Golden Square. He is even bringing some elves with him on Saturday and Sunday, December 21 and 22 – so make sure you take the little ones to the Old Market Place to make memories and snap a few selfies for the family photo archives!

To view our events calendar and discover why it’s all happening in Warrington this Christmas visit: www.warringtonishappening.co.uk