York Nutcracker Trail

About

image: Gareth Buddo

York BID has announced the launch of the 2024 Nutcracker Trail, a unique celebration of Christmas with an international twist. Designed by York-based artist MarcoLooks, the trail features ten Nutcracker sculptures, each representing a different country, showcasing their vibrant colours and iconic landmarks.

A Trail with Accessibility and Community at Its Heart

Artist Marc Godfrey-Murphy (MarcoLooks) shared his vision for the project:

“Designing the York Christmas Nutcracker Trail for 2024 has been one of the most joyful projects I’ve ever worked on. As someone with a visual impairment, I wanted to ensure the trail was accessible for everyone. Each Nutcracker features braille on its collar, thanks to the RNIB’s transcriptions team, allowing visually impaired visitors to engage with the sculptures.”

The project also received valuable input from the City of York Council’s Our City Hub, ensuring that each Nutcracker authentically reflects the cultures of York’s diverse communities.

How to Participate

Start the Trail: Pick up a map at the Visit York Visitor Information Centre on Parliament Street.
Find the Nutcrackers: Explore York to discover each Nutcracker, themed with colours and landmarks representing a specific country.
Solve the Clues: Match each Nutcracker to its country using the clues and record your answers on the map.
Submit Your Entry: Drop your completed map at the Visitor Information Centre or Santa’s Post Box in Museum Gardens for a chance to win a £250 York Gift Card!

Get Creative

Younger artists can download a Nutcracker template to design their own creations. Submit entries to info@theyorkbid.com for a chance to be featured in the 2025 Nutcracker Trail.

Meet the Artist: MarcoLooks

MarcoLooks, founded by Marc Godfrey-Murphy in 2018, is known for its colourful, quirky illustrations and playful gifts. Marc has also worked as an animator on popular children’s shows like Numberblocks and Tree Fu Tom.