Get ready for a brand new and enchanting festive shopping experience coming to Colchester this November. The Colchester Christmas Market Trail on Sunday, 26 November, promises to unite two beloved seasonal events, the Festive Market and Street Food Festival, located in the Market Place and High Street, and the Christmas Gift & Craft Market, relocating from Colchester Town Hall to Firstsite.
As you follow the trail connecting these two exciting venues, you’ll be immersed in the holiday spirit. Look forward to skateboarding displays in St. Nicholas Square, live music performances by talented local buskers, an array of street performers, and even delightful pop-up fairground rides.
Now in its third year, the Christmas Gift & Craft Market, offering free entry for all, brings together over 40 stalls showcasing an extensive range of products crafted by local artisans and suppliers. You’ll find everything from arts and crafts, beer, wine, and spirits to clothing, fashion, eco-friendly products, skincare, beauty items, candles, and Christmas decorations.
Meanwhile, the traditional Christmas Market and Street Food Festival in the city will delight visitors with a wide selection of giftware, including Christmas trees and wreaths, alongside an enticing array of food and drinks from both regular market vendors and special guests.
St. Nicholas Square will host a collaborative effort between ‘Roots & Grooves,’ ‘Other Monkeys Brewery,’ and ‘Three Wise Monkeys,’ featuring live music organized by the local charity ‘Musicians Supporting The Homeless.’ Here, you’ll also discover stalls selling clothing, art prints, music, vinyl records, and festive food and drink. Don’t miss the skateboarding displays courtesy of the city’s Dry Skate Project.
At Colchester Town Hall, the Mayoral Suite opens its doors for a magical ‘Storytime with Santa,’ a ticket-only event designed for children aged eight and under. Kids can join Santa and his elves for a heartwarming Christmas story narrated by Santa himself.
“It’s great to see the city’s Year of Celebration continuing to entertain residents and visitors alike with yet more exciting new events for all. The Colchester Christmas Market Trail will be a truly festive way to celebrate the city’s proud market heritage and continue to support local producers and traders. With unique gifts from local artists and craftspeople, festive food and drink, and live entertainment, it’s bound to bring the festive spirit to the city centre.”
Said Cllr Michelle Burrows, Colchester City Council Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Culture, and Heritage.
The Colchester Christmas Market Trail will take place on Sunday, 26 November, from 10 am to 5 pm. Tickets for ‘Storytime with Santa’ at the Town Hall can be purchased from Colchester Events.
For more information about the exciting new events coming to Colchester this Christmas, visit Christmas in Colchester.
Source: Colchester City Council
