The popular market on Parliament Street will welcome visitors from 10.30am and will operate from Wednesday to Monday each week. It will close at 7pm on most days, with its final trading day on Monday, 21 December ending earlier at 5pm.

Organiser Make It York says this year’s market will celebrate local creativity, craftsmanship and community spirit. More than 80% of traders are based in York.

The Tuesday closures are part of a trial designed to support residents and city-centre workers. Councillor Kate Ravilious, the City of York Council’s transport spokesperson, said the weekly rest day aims to improve conditions for those who live and work in the city.

The city’s Business Improvement District (BID), the council and event organisers will monitor the impact of the closures following concerns raised by traders. November and December are particularly important for local businesses, typically accounting for around 22% of annual sales.

While the Christmas Market will close on Tuesdays, other city-centre businesses, including shops, pubs, cafés, restaurants and visitor attractions, will be able to trade as normal.

York residents can receive a 10% discount at market stalls by presenting a residents’ card or proof of address, such as a driving licence.

To improve accessibility, St Sampson’s Centre on Church Street will provide a quieter space between 10am and 4pm, Monday to Saturday. In addition, market music will be switched off daily from 10.30am until noon to create a calmer environment for visitors.

Organisers have also launched an online map to help shoppers navigate the market and locate stalls. Visitors are encouraged to travel by public transport or use York’s Park & Ride services if driving into the city.

The BID will assess whether the Tuesday closures encourage more local residents to visit and spend money in the city. The study will use credit and debit card transaction data, with findings expected in February. Results will help shape decisions on future Christmas Markets and ways to make the event more accessible.

A BID spokesperson acknowledged concerns from some businesses about the potential impact on trading but said the changes are intended to make the city centre more welcoming and accessible during the festive season.

The closure trial is linked to measures introduced alongside an Anti-Terror Traffic Regulation Order (ATTRO), which restricts vehicle access to York’s pedestrianised streets during the Christmas period. The restrictions, which affect Blue Badge holders and other drivers, were introduced to reduce the risk of vehicle attacks on large public gatherings.

Disabled residents previously raised concerns about access to the city centre during last year’s festive period. Meanwhile, market traders have warned that losing a trading day each week could reduce earnings and put jobs at risk.

Speaking earlier this year, Council Leader Claire Douglas described the issue as both difficult and sensitive, saying a balance must be struck between public safety, accessibility and the needs of local businesses.