So, I am usually one of those people who has all of their Christmas shopping done weeks before the day itself to avoid the mad dash trip into town a few days before heading home to see the family – but not this year! This year I am nowhere near ready and before spending last weekend browsing for initial ideas online I was starting to go into panic mode…that was however until I realised just how many lovely Christmas markets are coming to Bristol this year.
Some of them need no introduction (namely Broadmead and St Nick’s) but I was delighted to see that there are several small local markets going on too where I am sure I’ll be able to pick up a treat or two for those closest to me:
Bristol Christmas and Local Market– the most well known market in Bristol, this one has already been on Broadmead for a couple of weeks with over 40 gift chalets available along with its traditional German food and drink stall to entice all of us hungry shoppers. St Nick’s as always will have a multitude of present ideas and tasty treats on offer too.
Clifton Christmas Market – at our very own Christchurch here in the village on Saturday 25th November from 10.00am – 4.00pm. This market supports local small businesses and charities and is a must for original crafts and artisan gifts.
Harbourside Christmas Market – to be found on Canons Way, the Harbourside market will feature an impressive 45 stalls and offer live music and some brilliant street food. Opening this coming weekend and it will run until Christmas eve.
East Street Christmas Market – Bedminster will see the third annual return of this popular market on Saturday with a visit from Santa and his reindeer. With fairground rides and children’s activities, this one is sure to be a great day out for the whole family.
Emersons Green Christmas Market – One evening only on 1st December from 7.30pm – 10.00pm, this market is adults only so you can head straight to the bar for a glass of something festive! Lots of gifts and stocking fillers available so this one is a must for those small bits and pieces which everybody loves to open.
Festive Food and Craft Market at Tyntesfield – Anybody who has seen some of my previous blogs will know how much I love the National Trust and our wonderful Tyntesfield in Wraxall. Freshly baked seasonal treats along with handmade jewellery and ceramics will be on offer here and as an added bonus you can go for a walk around the beautiful grounds too! This market will take place on 2nd December.
Etsy Made Local Christmas Market – This one in particular I have my eye on as I LOVE Etsy! Running for one day only on 2nd December at the M-Shed (10.00am – 6.00pm), this market will be hosted by some of Bristol’s finest Etsy sellers with a brilliant selection of locally made goods and a pop-up festive café too.
Christmas Market at Arnos Vale – Arnos Vale cemetery is something quite beautiful so the market here on 3rd December will be well worth a visit to see the settling alone.
Tobacco Factory Christmas Market – Three markets in one at the Tobacco Factory! These will be running on 3rd, 10th and 17th December with gifts a plenty to be found along with local food, hot chestnuts (I’ll be going for these alone!) and mulled wine being served all day.
St Werburghs Christmas Market – Face painting and live music to entertain the children and lots of lovely stalls for adults too from 4.00pm – 8.00pm on 8th December only.
So with my gift list at the ready, I’m feeling a little more prepared for Christmas and might even treat myself to a mulled wine whilst out and about over the next few weeks. LET’S GET SHOPPING!