If you asked me to describe Christmas at York in one word, it would undoubtedly have to be ‘magical’. York City Centre is a kaleidoscope of colour during the Christmas period; glistening lights line the streets and festive music echoes throughout the markets. And as if that wasn’t enough incentive to come to York, the Bailey’s hot chocolate stalls are to die for! In my opinion, York is one of the best cities to spend Christmas in. Hopefully, after reading this blog post, you’ll agree with me too!
York Christmas Markets
As well as looking beautiful, the York Christmas Markets are one of the best places to go and hang out with your friends at this time of year. Or to pick up your loved ones a cute independent gift! Providing a great backdrop for insta-worthy flat-selfies, the atmosphere at the markets would even make the Grinch feel festive!
My personal favourite part of the markets, however, has to be the Carousel. My housemate and I went on it, and honestly, it felt like we were 8 again… I mean, what more could you ever want? And to top it all off, we had the nicest Baileys hot chocolate and crêpes. A fantastic end to a brilliant night, if I say so myself! Safe to say, we peaked.
History Society Winter Formal
Firstly, shout out to the History Society who managed to pull off such an amazing winter formal. The food, the company, and the location were all perfect! Taking place at the Hilton in York, it was amazing to finally be able to dress up in ball gowns and take to the dance floor! I call it dancing, some might call it awkward shuffling to the music.
The afterparty at Flares was a blast too, although the free wine had definitely started to hit. Most societies throw winter formals, and if you ever get the chance, I’d highly recommend attending one. I only knew about three people who were going but came back with a whole group of new friends. And an inflated ego from all the compliments on my dress… but we all need an ego-boost sometimes!
A Kirkgate Christmas Tale- York Castle Museum
The York Castle Museum is brilliant all year round, but at Christmas it’s honestly unbelievable! With Kirkgate Street covered in a blanket of snow, it’s as if you’ve stepped back in time to Christmas during the Victorian period. Projections line the walls, and there’s even functioning shops throughout the street. It truly is a 4D experience, just without the overpriced popcorn!
But I won’t tell you too much about it now, you must go and experience it yourself! It’s well-priced and the tickets last twelve months, so you can go and visit as much as you want during that time! There’s lots of different exhibitions at the museum, although I must say that the Kirkgate Street is definitely my favourite part!
We ended the day by attending the ‘Carols at the Minster’ service. I had an absolutely wonderful time and even got a free mince pie, so a big thank you to the universities’ Christian Unions’!
Deck the (Student) Halls
I don’t live in student halls anymore, but my housemate would actually disown me if I wasted the pun opportunity. Decorating your house is unquestionably one of the best parts of Christmas. And at university you can get away with starting to decorate even earlier. It’s really a win-win situation!
This year, for some reason, we decided to make our own Christmas wreath. Our neighbours probably thought we were totally crazy cutting branches from our driveway dressed in PJs, but YOLO… right??! The wreath took pride of place next to our snowflake-decorated windows and was eventually joined by a Christmas elf. We named him Ralph.
Spending quality time decorating with your flat is so, so wholesome–and a fun, well-deserved break from academia. So, make sure you decorate your house–even if it’s just some tinsel!
The only thing that could make this year’s Christmas at York any better would be making a snowman. So please, PLEASE manifest some snow for me!
Loved this write up Abbie! My sons started this year, History of Art, and loving it and the city y so much! Planning a trip up o collect Jo for Christmas so lots of lovely tips here, thank you!