Winter Makers Markets at People’s History Museum

Head to People’s History Museum for a handmade celebration of the festive season, where winter markets, crafty workshops and live music come together beneath the magnificent glass roof of the Edwardian Engine Hall.

The festivities begin on Thursday 20 November with the Winter Warmer – PHM’s after-hours launch night with live jazz, drop-in workshops, festive treats and mulled wine. Get an early peek at the stalls before the market opens to the public, make Candy Swirl decorations with textile artist Frockdolly, and watch illustrator Sebastian Roberts capture the night in quickfire sketches. All while music from PHM’s resident jazz band drifts through the Engine Hall and rare after-dark tours take place. Ever wanted to explore a museum at night? Here’s your chance. Tickets £10, book in advance – and your first mulled wine’s on the house.

From Friday 21 to Sunday 23 November, entry is free as the museum opens its doors to a vibrant festive marketplace stacked with some of the North West’s finest independent makers and designers. Among them, PHM unveils its own range of handcrafted Christmas decorations made with Frockdolly. These feature colourful felt designs inspired by European folk art and the museum’s stories of hope and unity.

The rest of the market is a treasure trove of ideas and artistry. One moment you’ll be leafing through playful prints by The Wonky Artist; the next, eyeing up woven textiles, ceramics, candles, jewellery and embroidered keepsakes. Expect the North West’s creative energy in all its eccentric, handmade glory – from well-established makers like JillyGDesign, Lelalo and The Magpies Daughter to community-focused creators like Recovery Pathways, a group supporting Greater Manchester Mental Health.

Want to get stuck into some making yourself? Across the weekend, stallholders lead bookable workshops in lino printing, weaving, jewellery making and festive embroidery – each lasting around an hour and priced from £15. Stitch a poinsettia with Frockdolly, lino-print your own Christmas cards with Halina Isherwood, or design a one-off piece of jewellery with Angharad Rose that’s yours to gift or keep. No judgements here.

Festive tunes are, of course, mandatory – it wouldn’t be Christmas without them. But Mariah’s taking a rest; in keeping with the handmade feel of everything here, two choirs are popping up with live performances. The Manchester Civil Service Choir (Saturday) and Magic Voices Choir (Sunday) will fill the Engine Hall with carols and classics – the perfect backdrop for browsing and making.

Come for the gifts, stay for the glue guns and choirs. This is Christmas, made by hand.