The much-anticipated Melanin Markets Winter Wonders is back and this time it’s a Royal affair! This annual event is Manchester's largest festive celebration of Black-owned businesses, and this time it’ll be taking over the iconic Royal Exchange Theatre in the heart of the buzzing city.
On Sunday 8 December, drop-in anytime between 12 noon – 5pm, Melanin Markets will transform the historic Great Hall at Royal Exchange Theatre into a lively hub of festive fun and culture. The last time they came to our venue was May 2022, with over 3,000 visitors turning out.
Melanin Markets are ready to make this year even more special by bringing their festive edition back to our historical venue. Expect a vibrant atmosphere packed with live music, mouth-watering food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or discovering Melanin Markets for the first time, this is the perfect way to kick off your holiday season, whether you’re coming solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family.
This year’s Winter Wonders offers something for everyone. Featuring both new and returning Black-owned businesses, the market will host traders from across the UK—London, Leeds, Liverpool, and of course, Manchester—bringing the very best of Black entrepreneurship to this festive marketplace.
In the dedicated food and drink section, local favourites like ARMR and Root 2 Ginger will serve up bespoke flavours and exciting new looks, created especially for this event. Shoppers can also explore a curated selection of unique, thoughtful gifts—from homeware and art to jewellery, books, and fashion. Known for its unapologetic representation and ethical approach, Melanin Markets will showcase traders like Mélange Dolls, offering dolls that reflect the diversity of mixed-race and ethnic heritage children, and Syaa Collections, a sustainable brand crafting accessories from traditional West African prints. Also featured will be m’ṣará Botanicals’ plant-based bodycare, vegan natural drinks Calyx Drinks and NeonAfrique’s stunning African clothing, made from 100% authentic fabrics. And there’s even more to be revealed on Melanin Markets’ platforms in the coming weeks!
But Winter Wonders isn’t just about shopping! Attendees will be swept away by live performances, including saxophone, steel pan, and vibrant dance routines, set to a soundtrack of reggae, afrobeats, blues, and more, courtesy of Manchester’s top DJs. It’s an experience for all ages—whether you’re here for the music, the food, the vibes, or the perfect gift.
Melanin Markets is proud to support Black-owned businesses across the North West, and everyone is invited to come together and celebrate culture, creativity, and community in this stunning venue as the year draws to a close.
FREE to attend and open to EVERYONE. Reserve your free ticket now to let us know you’re coming and keep up to date with what’s happening on the day. We’d love you to let us know you’re coming but remember you can always just turn up on the day and join the fun! Pop-in anytime between 12 noon and 5pm.
About Melanin Markets (MM) is a groundbreaking social impact events company based in Manchester. Committed to elevating and celebrating Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, MM challenges stereotypes and fosters community empowerment through innovative events in unique venues. The company has hosted impactful gatherings at renowned locations such as the Royal Exchange Theatre, HOME, Aviva Studios and Manchester University, as well as dynamic spaces like Hatch and We Invented the Weekend festival. Through collaborations with major brands like Nike and JD, Melanin Markets has showcased over 1000 Black-owned businesses and attracted more than 45,000 attendees, addressing socio-economic disparities head-on. With extensive media coverage from outlets like Granada News, BBC Radio, and Manchester Evening News, Melanin Markets is dedicated to reshaping the narrative around Black entrepreneurship and inspiring a more inclusive business landscape.
