Step in back in time… and into Christmas as the Victorian Markets return to the Lowry Outlet and MediaCityUK for their third annual visit.
The first day of the Victorian Christmas Markets’ Salford revival saw hundreds turn out to enjoy the festivities.
Among them was Tyndale Thomas MBE, Manchester-based singer, composer and choir director, performing his Christmas songs ‘with a twist’ alongside the Pennine Community Choir.
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“I think it’s fantastic,” said Mr Thomas, who was visiting the market for the first time. “Although it’s colder outside, it’s freeing and it’s wonderful.
“It’s normal people here, actually selling their own stuff, so it’s fantastic – a real community spirit.”
Mr Thomas, who has sung with Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone and gospel legend Andre Crouch, wowed crowds with his R&B-style gospel carols.
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The markets boast more than 100 stalls selling all manner of delights – from savoury goodies and something for those with a sweeter tooth to presents for all the family.
There are also Victorian characters meandering through the crowds to entertain shoppers as they taste homemade foods and drink mulled wine.
One character, who turned up to greet market-goers was the notorious Mr Scrooge, sitting atop an armchair decked with holly and a ‘SCROO U’ license plate.
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A range of live music acts will be performing across the four day event and, if the Manchester weather takes a turn for the worse, they can be enjoyed from the top floor of a double decker bus.
There is also the chance to capture some memories in the Snow Globe Photo Booth, take a trip around the carousel or glide across the ice rink.
The festivities are running from 11am until 7:30pm on Friday and Saturday before a spectacular final day on Sunday December 7 between 11am-5pm.
All images courtesy of Mark Waugh via Lowry Press Office, with thanks.
