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!

Cressing Temple Barns: Essex Christmas Fair

First on our list of Christmas markets in Essex that you must visit this year is the Cressing Temple Barns Christmas Fair! Over 100 exhibitors will be spread across the breathtaking setting of the barns, offering a wide range of handmade gifts, as well as mouthwatering food and drink, so you get to treat both yourself and your loved ones in the run up to Christmas. The fair will be taking place from 14 – 16 November to get you feeling the festive cheer after Halloween and Fireworks Night. Under 18’s go free, whilst adult tickets are just £7 for a day of merriment. You can even bring your four-legged friends along (must be kept on leads at all times).

Essex County Christmas Fair at Braxted Park Estate

The Essex County Christmas Fair returns to Braxted Park Estate from 14 to 16 November 2025, offering over 150 stalls with handcrafted gifts, artisan food, and festive treats. Visitors can enjoy live music, stilt walkers, LED performers, horse and cart rides, and a walkabout Santa. Held in heated marquees and scenic grounds, it’s the ultimate Christmas shopping experience in Essex, complete with mulled wine, festive tipples, and magical entertainment.

Wivenhoe House Christmas Shopping Experience

Head to the beautiful Wivenhoe House Hotel on Sunday 16 November for a magical Christmas Shopping Experience! There will be 45 stalls inside and outside selling an array of festive gifts, food, and more from local businesses. Entry is £3.50 per person, which includes a free mince pie to enjoy. Under 5’s go free.

Danbury Christmas Fayre

Enjoy festive family fun, delicious food and drink, visit Santa at his Grotto, and browse the market stalls at the Danbury Christmas Fayre. This year, this annual event is taking place on Saturday 29 November, from 12pm – 4pm – perfect for those who simply can’t wait until December to get into the Christmas spirit! It’s set to be a wonderful day hosted by Danbury Parish Council and supported by Danbury and Villages Rotary Club.

Tiptree Tea Room Christmas Fair

The Tiptree Tea Room Christmas Fair will be taking place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 November, and it’s set to be a jolly two days! The fair will be taking place in their marquee and overflow carpark, which is being transformed into a magical Christmas Courtyard. Browse stalls with local crafts and gifts, indulge in delicious food and drink from a range of vendors, and even buy real Christmas trees! Their iconic Tiptree Bus will be serving up drinks, and the kids will get the chance to visit Santa’s Grotto. Don’t forget to bring your furry friends along. It’s free entry for all!

People walking around Tiptree Christmas Market

Town Hall Christmas Gift Market, Colchester

You’ll be feeling the festive cheer after a day out at the Town Hall Christmas Gift Market taking place at the Moot Hall in Colchester on Sunday 7 December! Browse 40 stalls selling a unique selection of handcrafted and locally sourced gifts – you’re bound to find some gems that will bring a smile to your loved ones faces this Christmas. This event is a part of Colchester’s High Street Market, bringing even more opportunities to shop for the perfect Christmas presents. Don’t forget to also treat yourself!

The Rayleigh Club Christmas Market

If you’re looking for a Christmas market in Hullbridge, The Rayleigh Club Christmas Market is back by popular demand. Taking place on Sunday 7 December from 11am – 3pm, entry is free for those looking to explore stalls selling fantastic food and gifts! Interested in becoming a stallholder yourself? Spots start from £50 – get involved today!

Christmas Fun with Santa, Museum of Power

As part of their Christmas Fun with Santa event from 6 to 7 December, where families can meet Santa in his grotto and enjoy a miniature train ride, the Museum of Power will also be hosting a wonderful indoor Christmas market in Maldon.

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