Introducing our Advent Calendar – the sixth post in a cultural countdown to Christmas. Today: independent shops, Christmas markets and coffee.

Today is Small Business Saturday – which means a celebration of independent shops. We love Cow Vintage in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, Magma nearby and the Craft & Design Centre. As it’s a Saturday, it’s also the ideal time to explore Manchester’s Christmas Markets – we’ve selected the very best from over 300 stalls, focussing both on some ace gift ideas and foodie indulgences to give into. Stop for a coffee at Pot Kettle Black in Barton’s Arcade when it all gets a bit much.

Do more. You could also make a shopping day trip with our Top 10 Christmas Markets in the North guide. Altrincham Market, St. George’s Hall Winter Arts Market and the Hepworth’s Christmas Market are all open this weekend – perfect for present buying as the days between now and the Big Day get ever fewer…