Christmas in the Toon: Is Newcastle Xmas market too expensive?

Bright lights spilling across Grey Street, festive music rising above the crowds, and the familiar December excitement that makes even the cold seem charming are all part of Newcastle's Christmas Market's return. But in addition to the mulled wine and photo ops, there’s a question prevailing this year if the market is becoming too pricey. Although food has always been more expensive, the increase feels more noticeable this year. Mulled wine easily reaches £6–£7, hot chocolate is between £4 and £5.50, and a bratwurst can cost between £7 and £9. Even basic treats like churros or crepes can cost between £6 and £8, making a casual celebration outing into a small budgeting exercise. 

Spending almost £15 on a snack and drink feels more expensive than it used to for students juggling rent, utilities, and growing grocery bills. Winter accessories have emerged as an unexpected topic of conversation in addition to food. Woollen caps are being sold by a number of vendors for £12 to £15, which many believe is not commensurate with the products' mass-produced appearance or quality. Julia, a postgraduate student at Newcastle University, stated, "I picked up a basic white beanie and it was for fifteen pounds." "It's cute, but it's not fifteen pounds cute at all." Scarves ranged from £15 to £20, and thick festive socks were seen costing between £8 and £12 per pair. Despite being an essential component of the market's atmosphere and unquestionably enjoyable, rides have their own drawbacks.

The majority of rides cost about £5, which is high enough to cause students to hesitate but not outrageous when compared to national prices. Daniel, an undergraduate student who went to the market on opening weekend, said, "If it was £3, I would jump on without thinking." "However, £5 forces you to consider whether it's worthwhile, which kind of kills the spontaneity." Newcastle is in the middle when compared to other Northern cities. With caps ranging from £8 to £12 and rides typically costing between £3 and £4, Leeds is generally slightly less expensive, particularly for accessories. Manchester, which is well-known for its expansive market, is much more costly, with food often costing £10 and caps frequently reaching £15–£18.

York outperforms Newcastle in terms of charm and the experience of perusing genuinely handmade goods, even though its prices are comparable. Edinburgh, a popular weekend destination for students, is stunning but unquestionably the most costly, with rides costing between £6 and £9 and beanies reaching £20. Students feel the pinch because the value doesn't always match the cost, even though Newcastle isn't the most expensive Christmas market in the North. Although the market appears lovely, there isn't much variety, some of the stalls seem monotonous, and the prices seem excessive for what's available. In many respects, the market is now more about the experience than the actual purchases.

Nevertheless, Christmas in the Toon is magical in its own right. An otherwise chilly month is made cozier by the lights, ambiance, music and flame heaters. However, your proximity to your next student loan payment may determine whether that warmth is worth a £5 ride or a £15 furry cap.