The Laxey Village Christmas Market is set to take place next week, with Christmas-themed steam trains running to support the event.

Now in its 13th year, the event has grown from a small village fair into a major Christmas attraction spread across four venues in the village, including the Working Men’s Institute, the Laxey Glen, Laxey Station and Christ Church.

Taking place on Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24, the organisers of the market have reduced the prices in an attempt to make it more affordable for attending families.

A spokesperson from the market said: ‘Lots of events for families are particularly expensive, and this can be a time for business profit rather than for giving. Many families therefore simply cannot afford the things that make this a special time of year.

‘We have therefore reduced our prices for Christmas, which is our present to families.’

The volunteer-run railway is this year limiting tickets to £3 each, with under five’s free. An adult with their children under five can therefore all ride for just £3.

The spokesperson added: ‘With less than four weeks to transform the amazing technicalities of the Hop Tu Naa Ghost Train into a special Christmas experience, the team at the Great Laxey Mine Railway have again been weaving their magic.

‘Intermittent snow is confidently forecast over the steam railway’s station, and Christmas characters will provide fun at the train and throughout the village.

‘Supporting the Laxey Christmas Market, trains will run between 11am and 4pm on both days.

‘Anyone interested in volunteering in 2025 will be made hugely welcome. A fun time is had by all, whether you want to be a guard, engineer, steam train driver or just simply want to help out and be one of the team.

‘There is tea, cake, biscuits and laughter abound. You can message us via the Laxey Christmas Market Facebook page if you are interested.’

The market attracts several thousand people with the best in local crafts and produce on display at more than 100 stalls, while there will be different stalls on each day.

There will be plenty to eat and drink, games to play and a raffle with prizes donated by all of the stallholders.

Father Christmas has also accepted his invitation and he’s looking forward to meeting as many children as he can.