Christmas at the Piece Hall

Carmel Smickersgill, Tours & Activities Editor

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Christmas at the Piece Hall

The Piece Hall, Halifax
10 November 2023-1 January 2024

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

The Piece Hall
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The Piece Hall is one of Halifax’s architectural gems. Its ornate Georgian exterior and large open air space is the perfect place to enter into the festive spirit this winter. Christmas at the Piece Hall is set to be a cracker of a season, featuring a programme packed with markets, workshops, comedy, music and more. 

The season starts with The Piece Hall’s Christmas Markets. Running on the last three weekends of the month, you can peruse 50 stalls from the best artisanal local makers, creators, jewellers and bakers. Whether you’re there to find a unique Christmas gift or looking for a heart warming mulled wine and live music, there’s something for all tastes. 

In the evenings, the hall will be brought to life with performances from musicians such as Julian and Jiaxin Lloyd-Webber, Craig Charles, Kimberly Wyatt (formerly of the Pussycat Dolls) and Dick and Dom (DJ set). Amongst the big names you can also find more local acts such as Black Dyke Brass Band, Yorkshire Symphony Orchestra and Sheffield Community Choir bringing Christmas cheer, classical bangers and a feel good atmosphere to the hall. 

Boxer Johnny Nelson will also be appearing in conversation in the Hall’s Salon Perdu Spiegeltent. Other non musical events happening over Christmas at the Piece Hall include an alternative Christmas Movie Marathon, stand-up from the Comedy Store and Bazzy’s Bingo, plus a night of number-fuelled debauchery from Halifax’s choreo queen, Dame Shirley Bazzey. 

Throughout the season there will also be a selection of workshops to get hands-on with. Make your own Christmas cards and presents with glass decorating, wreath making and lino printing. In these sessions you can leave the chaos of Christmas activities behind and spend a mindful afternoon crafting handmade treasures for your loved ones. 

In addition to the big names and seasonal activities, don’t miss your chance to visit the hall while it is adorned with Christmas decorations that combine beautiful tradition with modern design. Nothing puts the festive spirit into you more than taking in a 45 foot Sitka Spruce Christmas tree, topped with elaborate sparkle and joyful baubles.

Where to go near Christmas at the Piece Hall

Square Chapel Arts Centre
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Meandering Bear
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Owned by the folks who run the award-winning Grayston Unity, the Meandering Bear is a great little independent bar and eatery in Halifax.

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Trading for over 30 years, the iconic shop prides itself on stocking an eclectic selection of vinyl records – the latest new releases alongside second-hand vinyl.

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This grand and historic market was opened by the Duke and Duchess of York in 1896 and has been at the heart of Halifax life ever since.

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A beautiful and varied collection of contemporary art from across the UK. Their regular exhibitions are both seasonal and thematic and always worth visiting…

Grayston Unity
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The bar itself is small but you’ll find it a friendly place where you can get a lovely drink in a unique setting.

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