The Downsides of the Christmas Markets
Yes, I may be in my Grinch mode, since I established that Christmas does not begin before December, so I figured I had two days left to share any views on the matter. Let's begin with the Christmas Markets and their downsides.
They are noisy
Anyone walking in town can hear the markets before they see them. Whether it's the same Christmas songs playing for the millionth time, or crowds making commotion for absolutely no reason on a Tuesday night, it is very loud to be around, even if you are a fan of 'noise'. Yes, we know you're happy to be here, Susan, but some of us are trying to get home.
They are suffocating and take up time
You only have to walk down Market Street ONCE this Christmas period to see it is RAMMED with people. The usual 2-5 min walk easily becomes 10-15 mins with hoards of people queueing up at the markets for items or idly standing in the way. The average commuter is then left disgruntled trying to make their way home after a long day. I always forget that not everyone is having the same experience; some people are in a jolly mood but others have been working and have worries from finances, politics, and perhaps the fact that it isn't even December yet and Christmas is somehow here.
They are expensive
Tourists will lament over how lucky Mancs are to have the Christmas Markets on their doorstep. Truth be told, I actually love the markets experience despite this blog. But it has to be said that there are downsides and one of those is the rising costs. Whilst Manchester may be one of the more affordable options compared to other UK options, it is still so much more than it used to be. With electricity bills and inflation still high, it is unreasonable to expect the average Manc to shell out £10 for street food, not to mention students and pensioners. We're not exactly made of money, it isn't the South you're dealing with.
The markets have their downsides and these should be discussed more - after all, it isn't necessarily everyone's cup of tea.
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