Christmas Markets in Essex 2024

There’s a chill in the crisp, evening air, lights are shining from above as you meander through stalls of homemade goods and unique gifts, with the aroma of mulled wine and mince pies wafting its way towards you. Attending at least one Christmas market is a non-negotiable when the festive season hits. Find a Christmas market in Essex for you to enjoy this year!

Benton Hall

Visit Benton Hall Christmas market on 17^th November for the perfect festive shopping and gift experience. Spend the morning browsing arts and craft stalls, admiring various trinkets and treasures, soaking in the festive atmosphere, and don't miss a visit from Santa.

Braintree Christmas Street Market

Indulge in holiday shopping at the Braintree Christmas Street Market on Saturday 23^rd November. Explore a variety of food stalls, bars, crafts, handmade items, local produce, and collectibles. Enjoy the festive atmosphere with an Artisan Hub featuring additional stalls in George Yard, Christmas entertainment, and the light switch-on.

Christmas at Markshall

Experience the magic of Christmas at Markshall on 23^rd and 24^th November. Nestled in stunning natural surroundings, this enchanting Christmas market offers a selection of artisan gifts, seasonal treats, and handcrafted decorations from local vendors. Enjoy the cozy holiday atmosphere with mulled wine, festive food, and more (free entry to the Arboretum and Christmas Market).

Makers Market, Harvey Centre, Harlow

Shop small, local, and handmade this Christmas at the Makers Market at the Harvey Centre in Harlow. Browse an array of bespoke festive gifts and local crafts before enjoying free family crafts and musical entertainment. Don't miss their Christmas Grotto, open every day from mid-November until Christmas Eve. Even your four-legged friends can meet Santa and receive a gift!

Maldon High Street

Bundle up and visit Maldon High Street on Thursday 28^th November, for their annual light switch-on. Experience an evening filled with festive spirit, joy, and excitement, featuring street stalls, indoor craft markets, entertainment from local performers, Santa's Grotto, and delicious refreshments from local businesses.

The Museum of Power

Meet Santa in his grotto, ride a miniature steam train, explore indoor Christmas stalls, and join in the festive entertainment at The Museum of Power in Maldon (tickets from £5pp, 30th November - 1st December).

Rochford Christmas Festival

The most wonderful time of the year is here! Experience the Rochford Christmas Festival on Sunday 1st December featuring a Christmas market, children's rides, crafts, entertainment, the light switch-on, and more. Santa will even be making an appearance!

Firstsite Folk & Bespoke Artisan Craft Market

Discover unique Christmas gifts at the Folk & Bespoke Artisan Craft Market at Firstsite on 3rd December. All products are handmade, designed, or created by local artists, makers, and creatives. With a wide range of products available, get a head start on your Christmas shopping and support your local creative businesses (free entry).

Chelmsford Cathedral

There's much to see and do at Chelmsford Cathedral during Advent and Christmas this year, including their popular Christmas Market on Saturday 7^th December. Explore the Cathedral and its grounds, shop for unique gifts from local makers and artisans, and enjoy live entertainment under the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree (free entry).

Which Christmas Market in Essex will you be heading to this year? Be sure to tag us in your Insta posts with @visitessex so we can repost your festive joy! For more Christmas events and things to do in Essex, click here.