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As the festive season approaches, Ely once again becomes a magical destination for holiday shoppers and Christmas enthusiasts.
The Ely Christmas Market 2025, centred around the magnificent Ely Cathedral, promises a rich blend of seasonal charm, unique gifts, local crafts, and culinary delights.
With thousands of visitors expected over three days, the event is one of East Anglia’s most anticipated holiday attractions.
From beautifully curated market stalls to a special exclusive shopping evening, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.
When Is the Ely Christmas Market 2025 Taking Place?
The Ely Christmas Market 2025 is scheduled to run across three days from Thursday 20 November to Saturday 22 November.
A key highlight is the Exclusive Shopping Evening which takes place the night before the main event on Wednesday 19 November.
This event has been carefully scheduled to offer both daytime and evening access, making it easier for people with varying schedules to attend.
Each day presents a new opportunity to enjoy festive shopping, live music, food stalls, and more.
Event Schedule
| Date | Time | Description |
| Wednesday, 19 Nov | 6:30pm – 8:30pm | Exclusive Shopping Evening |
| Thursday, 20 Nov | 9:30am – 4:30pm | Public Entry to the Market |
| Friday, 21 Nov | 9:30am – 4:30pm / 6:30pm – 8:30pm | Includes Evening Shopping Session |
| Saturday, 22 Nov | 9:30am – 4:30pm | Final Day of the Christmas Market |
All market stalls are required to be open for every session, ensuring consistency and a complete experience for all attendees.
Where Will the Ely Christmas Market 2025 Be Held?
The event is set within the historic and visually stunning Ely Cathedral and its surrounding grounds.
This venue not only brings grandeur and tradition to the event but also accommodates a wide range of exhibitors and visitor amenities.
The market will utilise both indoor and outdoor spaces to cater to varied exhibitor needs and visitor preferences.
Venue Layout Overview
| Area | Access Type | Features |
| Inside Ely Cathedral | Ticketed Entry | Premium gift stalls, crafts, decorations |
| Festive Marquee on Cross Green | Free Public Access | Food and drink stalls, artisan produce |
| Outdoor Festive Village | Free Public Access | Catering pitches and entertainment zone |
Each space is thoughtfully planned to manage footfall and provide a vibrant yet comfortable shopping environment. Lighting, flooring, and heating are installed where needed, particularly in the marquee.
What Can Visitors Expect at the Ely Cathedral Christmas Fair?
The Ely Cathedral Christmas Fair is one of the most celebrated festive markets in East Anglia, known for its quality, atmosphere, and beautifully curated selection of seasonal offerings.
Set within the historic surroundings of Ely Cathedral and its grounds, the fair brings together an exceptional mix of independent retailers, artisans, food producers, and charitable organisations.
Visitors can expect an immersive experience that goes beyond simple shopping. The event is designed to capture the essence of a traditional British Christmas, combining old-world charm with modern festive flair.
As soon as you enter, you’re welcomed by the sound of carol singers, the scent of mulled wine and freshly baked goods, and the warm glow of seasonal lights.
Variety of Stalls and Products
Over 150 stallholders will showcase a diverse range of products across both indoor and outdoor spaces.
The selection is carefully curated each year through a fair and competitive application process to ensure variety and quality.
Products available include:
- Handmade Christmas decorations and ornaments
- Artisan jewellery crafted from silver, glass, and natural materials
- High-quality textiles, including scarves, hats, and festive clothing
- Luxury bath and body products such as soaps, oils, and skincare items
- Seasonal home décor, candles, and handcrafted wooden items
- Locally produced food and drink, including cheeses, chutneys, cakes, and spirits
Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas gift, a decorative piece for your home, or gourmet ingredients for your festive table, the fair offers plenty of choice to suit all tastes and budgets.
Food, Drink, and Festive Treats
The Festive Marquee and Outdoor Catering Village offer a wide variety of culinary delights.
These areas are free to access and include numerous food and drink exhibitors selling everything from hot chocolate and artisan coffee to gourmet burgers and traditional mince pies.
Hot food vendors are complemented by stalls offering:
- Handmade chocolates and fudge
- Seasonal jams, preserves, and condiments
- Regional wines and craft spirits
- Freshly baked artisan bread and pastries
There are also spaces to sit and enjoy a meal or snack, with heaters and lighting provided in the marquee to keep guests comfortable in the colder weather.
Entertainment and Atmosphere
Live entertainment enhances the festive spirit throughout the event. Musical performances by local choirs, brass bands, and solo artists take place at intervals during the day, with special performances scheduled during the Exclusive Shopping Evening.
Additional atmospheric features include:
- Seasonal lighting displays within the Cathedral
- Traditional Christmas tree installations
- Carol singing and instrumental performances
- Charity gift wrapping stations and donation stalls
The interior of Ely Cathedral is transformed into a winter wonderland, offering a magical experience that appeals to all ages.
Support for Local Charities and Artisans
A number of stalls are dedicated to local and national charities, with all profits going towards important causes.
This gives visitors the opportunity to support meaningful initiatives while doing their Christmas shopping.
Many of the traders are small, independent businesses from across the region. By attending the fair, visitors contribute directly to the local economy and help sustain independent artisans and makers who rely on festive markets as a major part of their income.
A Comfortable and Well-Managed Experience
The layout of the fair is designed with visitor comfort and safety in mind. Wide aisles, clear signage, and helpful event stewards ensure smooth navigation through the market areas.
The indoor Cathedral space is ticketed to manage footfall, providing a calm and comfortable environment for browsing.
Accessibility is prioritised throughout the venue, with step-free access available in key areas and staff on hand to assist where needed.
How Can You Get Tickets for the Ely Christmas Market 2025?
Tickets will be released on Monday 15 September 2025 through the Ely Cathedral website.
The Cathedral interior is accessible via ticket only, while the Festive Marquee and outdoor areas remain open to the public free of charge.
Ticketing is managed online, allowing for timed entry slots and early bookings. This approach helps to limit overcrowding and maintain safety and comfort across the venue.
Ticket options include:
- General admission for Cathedral access
- Exclusive Evening entry on 19 November
- Group bookings (now fully booked)
- Charity concessions (via application)
Stallholders and coach parties must plan ahead, as the Cathedral has already reached capacity for group bookings for 2025.
What’s Special About the Exclusive Shopping Evening?
The Exclusive Shopping Evening at the Ely Cathedral Christmas Market is more than just an early preview of the fair it’s an experience designed for those who want to enjoy the magic of Christmas in a more refined, quieter, and truly special atmosphere.
Taking place on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm, this evening offers limited-capacity access to the market, setting the tone for the entire festive weekend.
Unlike the bustling daytime sessions, the Exclusive Shopping Evening is carefully curated to deliver a sense of elegance and tranquillity.
With lower visitor numbers, beautifully lit surroundings, and a carefully crafted experience, it allows guests to explore the stalls at a more relaxed pace without the usual crowds.
A More Intimate Shopping Experience
The reduced number of attendees during the Exclusive Shopping Evening means visitors can engage directly with stallholders, browse products in detail, and make considered purchases.
This is especially valuable for those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts or wanting to explore handmade items that require more time and attention.
Benefits of the evening experience include:
- Avoiding the peak-time crowds seen during the main market days
- A quieter, more enjoyable shopping atmosphere
- Early access to exclusive and limited-stock items
- More time to speak with artisans and independent makers
It’s an ideal event for serious shoppers, collectors, or anyone who appreciates a more thoughtful and curated retail experience.
Cathedral Ambience After Dark
One of the most memorable aspects of the Exclusive Shopping Evening is the opportunity to experience Ely Cathedral illuminated at night.
The Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and high vaulted ceilings take on an entirely new dimension when lit with soft, ambient lighting.
The setting is both atmospheric and awe-inspiring, adding a dramatic backdrop to the entire evening.
Visitors often describe this as one of the most enchanting parts of the Ely Christmas Market, walking through the centuries-old cathedral with festive music playing softly in the background and beautifully dressed stalls glowing under decorative lights.
Premium Access to Full Market Offerings
All stalls located inside the Cathedral and in the Festive Marquee are fully open and staffed during the Exclusive Shopping Evening.
This means guests enjoy complete access to the same wide selection of gifts, crafts, and festive foods that will be available during the main event days.
This early access allows for:
- Securing popular items before they sell out
- Gaining first choice on limited edition or handcrafted products
- Discovering new and unique vendors ahead of the crowds
Stallholders are typically more available to answer questions, offer demonstrations, and assist with custom orders during this quieter session.
A Festive Atmosphere with Live Music and Refreshments
The Exclusive Shopping Evening is enhanced by live performances, carol singing, and the gentle hum of festive melodies echoing through the cathedral’s nave.
Many attendees describe the event as a blend between a cultural evening and a luxury shopping experience.
Seasonal refreshments such as mulled wine, hot cider, and festive nibbles are available throughout the evening, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Select food and drink vendors from the Festive Marquee also operate during this session, giving visitors a chance to sample local delicacies and warm treats.
Who Should Attend?
While the Exclusive Shopping Evening is open to everyone, it particularly appeals to:
- Those looking to avoid the weekend crowds
- Visitors who value a quieter, more immersive experience
- Shoppers in search of high-quality, handmade, or bespoke gifts
- Couples or small groups seeking a festive evening out
- Returning visitors who want a new way to enjoy the market
It’s also a great opportunity for photographers and content creators to capture the event in a more visually stunning and controlled environment, with the dramatic lighting and unique setting providing plenty of inspiration.
Limited Tickets and Booking Information
Because of the exclusive nature of the event, ticket numbers are strictly limited and tend to sell out quickly.
Visitors are encouraged to book well in advance once tickets go on sale from Monday, 15 September 2025 via the Ely Cathedral website.
Only ticket holders will be granted access during the evening, and no additional tickets will be sold at the gate on the night of the event. This controlled access ensures a high-quality experience for all attendees.
How Is the Ely Christmas Market Organised for Stallholders?
The organisation of the market follows a structured approach to maintain quality and diversity among exhibitors. Applications for 2025 have already closed, and all successful stallholders have been notified.
Stall types vary depending on location, with differences in size, facilities, and setup times.
Stallholder Options
| Location | Stall Type | Inclusions |
| Ely Cathedral (Interior) | Single | 1 x 6ft table, 2 chairs, power |
| Double | 2 x 6ft tables, 3 chairs, power | |
| Charity | Same as single, reserved for approved causes | |
| Festive Marquee | Single | 1 x 6ft table, 1 chair, power |
| Double | 2 x 6ft tables, 2 chairs, power | |
| Catering Village | Pitch Space | Open area with access to electric and lighting |
Food and drink exhibitors are automatically assigned a space in the outdoor marquee. Triple stalls are available by prior agreement only.
Setup takes place from 9am on Wednesday 19 November, with specific times and loading zones communicated to exhibitors one month in advance.
Where Can Stallholders and Visitors Park During the Event?
Parking at Ely Cathedral is restricted due to space limitations. Stallholders are required to unload their goods promptly and then move their vehicles to designated public parking areas around the city.
Parking guidance includes:
- No on-site parking at the Cathedral for stallholders or visitors
- Free public car parks available throughout Ely
- On Saturday, additional parking is available at The King’s School (access via Barton Square)
- Parking permits are issued to confirmed stallholders in advance
Unloading must be completed before 5:30pm on setup day due to Evensong services, during which silence is observed. Stallholders are invited to attend the service once setup is complete.
What Should You Know About Facilities and Payments?
The Ely Christmas Market is fully equipped with modern amenities to accommodate both exhibitors and the general public.
Facilities available include:
- Free on-site Wi-Fi with access codes provided at check-in
- Accessible toilets and mobility access throughout the venue
- Dedicated customer service desks and event stewards
Stallholder payments must be completed by 31 July 2025. Missing the payment deadline will result in automatic release of the stall, which will then be offered to applicants on the waiting list.
All exhibitors are encouraged to adhere to payment and setup guidelines, as the event operates under a structured timeline to ensure smooth execution.
Conclusion
The Ely Christmas Market 2025 promises a truly festive experience set against the backdrop of the stunning Ely Cathedral.
With a wide variety of stalls, delicious seasonal food, and a thoughtfully curated programme, it’s the perfect place to start your Christmas celebrations.
Whether you’re attending the exclusive shopping evening or visiting during the day, the market offers something special for everyone. Mark your calendar and get ready to enjoy one of the UK’s most enchanting Christmas events.
FAQs About Ely Christmas Market 2025
What is the best time to visit the Ely Christmas Market to avoid crowds?
Early morning sessions on Thursday or the Exclusive Shopping Evening on Wednesday typically have fewer visitors.
Is the Ely Cathedral Christmas Fair suitable for children?
Yes, families are welcome. There are child-friendly stalls, festive treats, and accessible facilities.
Do I need a ticket to visit the outdoor stalls at Ely Christmas Market?
No, the Festive Marquee and outdoor catering areas are free to enter. Tickets are only required for Cathedral entry.
Are pets allowed at the Ely Christmas Market?
Only guide dogs or registered assistance animals are permitted within the Cathedral and marquee areas.
Can I pay by card at the stalls?
Most vendors accept card payments, though it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller or independent stalls.
Is the event accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, Ely Cathedral offers step-free access, accessible toilets, and designated assistance points.
What happens if I miss the payment deadline as a stallholder?
Your stall will be released and reallocated to someone on the waiting list, and your application will be void.