You can’t help but be captivated by a Christmas market – all those tastes, aromas and inspirational gift ideas, just waiting to be explored. Here’s a rundown of Essex’s best.
Until 24th December
MEADOWCROFT GERMAN MARKET AND CHRISTMAS FAIR
Open seven days a week throughout November and December, the Wickford based garden centre's German market in now in its ninth year.
Germanic fare on offer includes bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, waffles and the intriguing schokokusse treats. 20 other stalls will be stocking various yuletide gifts including cuckoo clocks, ornaments, candles and clothing.
https://www.meadow-croft.co.uk/events/german-market
4th - 5th November
THE FESTIVE FOOD AND GIFT SHOW
The annual event has become a seasonal stalwart and regularly attracts visitors upwards of 10,000. The show takes place at the Brentwood Centre in Doddinghurst Road from November 4-5.
essexfestiveshow.co.uk
10th - 12th November
ESSEX CHRISTMAS SHOPPING FAIR
Gift hunters won’t want to miss the Essex Christmas Shopping Fair, which will run for three days within the picturesque setting of Cressing Temple Barns in Braintree.
Enjoy a huge range of stalls set within the historic barns themselves, as well as inside marquees and outside stands.
25th November
HALSTEAD CHRISTMAS FAYRE
There’s nothing like bright light at this time of year, so head along to Halstead Public Gardens on Saturday, November 25 for the town’s Christmas annual light display switch-on and festive fair.
https://www.facebook.com/halsteadchristmasfayre
26th November
GREAT DUNMOW CHRISTMAS MARKET
Great Dunmow’s popular Christmas market returns once again this year, offering a range of beautiful handmade crafts from some of the area’s most talented makers.
The event stretches along the High Street, into Market Place and also into Town Square with festive food and drink, as well as live entertainment.
There’s always a wonderful atmosphere after the official switch-on as the pretty twinkling lights cast a magical glow upon the occasion.
https://www.facebook.com/GreatDunmowMarketTown
30th November
MALDON CHRISTMAS FAYRE
The Maldon Christmas Fayre is always a wonderful evening of entertainment and shopping. This year, a market boasting close to 100 stalls will span the high street, offering tasty treats, homemade gifts, sparkling decorations and so much more
maldontowncouncil.gov.uk
1st - 5th December
SAFFRON WALDEN CHRISTMAS GIFT FAIR
Discover unique Christmas gifts, local handmade crafts and vintage items in aid of the Mayor’s Appeal at the Christmas Gift Fair taking place at Saffron Walden Town Hall from December 1-5. Admission is free.
Late Night Shopping organised by the Saffron Walden Initiative also returns on December 1. The all-day market in the town centre features charity and market stalls that will remain open until late.
From 5.30pm shoppers can enjoy seasonal entertainment, a dance in the square and sample delights from a variety of food trucks.It’s the perfect way to get into the festive spirit!
facebook.com/SaffronWaldenChristmasGiftFair
2nd December
EPPING CHRISTMAS MARKET
Epping Christmas Market brings the local businesses on the high street together for a very special festive event.
The market has it all ‒ entertainment, food, gifts, crafts, Father Christmas and festive fun. The Town Council also provide the Christmas lighting in the town centre, including the mini trees and a large Christmas tree on the Piazza.
visiteppingforest.org
2nd December
MADE IN COLCHESTER CHRISTMAS MAKERS' MARKET
Made in Colchester is a collective of makers all from the local area and this December 2nd they will be showing off their festive wares at One Colchester Community Hub
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/made-in-colchester-christmas-makers-market-2023-tickets-688817209817
3rd December
BILLERICAY CHRISTMAS MARKET
The Billericay Christmas Market, hosted by The Rotary Club of Billericay Mayflower, will feature over 150 stalls in the high street, including crafts, food, clothing, gifts and a farm shop.
Fairground rides, a circus troupe, a visit by Punch and Judy, and flash mobs will make this an unforgettable Christmas Palooza!
