Christmas is only just over a month away. Four weeks. I’m sure it’s like this every year, but I really feel as though Christmas has crept up on me this year.
It seems like only yesterday that we were waving goodbye to August. Putting the clocks forward and buying pumpkins for Halloween. Suddenly we are being greeted with Christmas songs in shops, advent calendars in supermarkets and suggestions for gifts everywhere we turn.
It’s a lovely time of year to enjoy the festive season though. For me it’s the anticipation of Christmas. The gift buying and party planning. Watching Christmas films and wrapping presents. Choosing the Christmas tree and going to festive events. Whilst we’re not quite into December yet, these events are already well underway, with many more over the next few weeks.
I do love a Christmas market. There are so many happening up and down the country at this time of year and all offering something a little bit different. With mulled wine and hot chocolate, warm mince pies and festive nibbles, they can be the perfect place to find beautiful gifts too. Stalls filled with artisan sellers all selling their makes and wares, it’s the ideal opportunity to shop with and support small businesses this Christmas.
The Christmas market is a trend that has grown and grown over the last few years with every town and city now taking part. It’s almost too tricky to list the very best ones, so check online to see if there’s one near you over the next few weeks. I couldn’t resist listing a few of my favourites though – those Christmas markets that really do shine.
Oxford – 5th-21st December
https://www.oxfordchristmasmarket.co.uk
Columbia Road, London – every Wednesday from 27th November-18th December
http://www.columbiaroad.info
Winchester Cathedral – 21st November-22nd December
https://www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk/home/christmas-at-the-cathedral/christmas-market/
Bath – 28th November-15th December
https://bathchristmasmarket.co.uk
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market – 7th November-23rd December
https://www.thebfcm.co.uk