2018 guide to Christmas markets in and around East London
This Christmas we urge you to look around at your local craftsmen and women as their hard work may just be the perfect gift you are looking for, not only meaning a lot to the recipient but also the local economy.
It’s quite simply the best way to do Christmas…so get yourself to one (or several!) of the following markets, you’ll be so glad you did! We’ve also listed the places to be for some Christmas carolling, viewing of lights and all round feel good family vibes.
8th December
The Acacia Tree Nursery School hosts its annual Moonlight Market, this year at the beautiful Tea in the Trees. Enjoy Tom’s Circus and a magical craft market as well as a Snakes & Ladders 5km fun run/walk! Walk or run the distance or take some ladders for shortcuts and snakes for the scenic route through the beautiful forests! From 4pm.
From 9am onwards, browse through various unique stalls at the Christmas Flea Market at NG Kerk Wesheuwels in Amalinda and pick up something lovely for that someone special!
Enjoy a Mzantsi Market Fundraiser Festival in Gonubie on 8th December, a one-day arts and music day filled with alternative fashion, arts, crafts, food stalls and top-notch live entertainment for the family within a fantastic outdoor picnic setting. From 10am.
9th December
Hosted by Nahoon Methodist Church, the Lifesavers Shack on Nahoon Beach is the place to be for some Carols by Candelight. Starting with beach games and followed by the service, this is a wonderful opportunity for some quality family time.
Celebrate Christmas with all your favourite carols at Calvary East London plus a visit from Santa. With onsite food vendors and expresso bar, this is an occasion you won’t want to miss. Services at 4.30pm and 7pm.
15th December
Yellowwood Forest‘s famous Christmas Markets are not to be missed! Support local and enjoy a family friendly vibe while browsing a variety of lovely stalls selling crafts, gifts, clothing, jewellery, delicious food and so much more. And if you can’t make it out on the 15th, there will be other opportunities when they host further markets on 22nd and 29th December.
Catch all your local favourites and more at Madison’s Market Cafe’s Christmas Market. Support local and shop for something unique at this popular venue. From 9am.
The last Fine & Fabulous event of the year is the Christmas Market, held at The Waterberry in Kidd’s Beach. Coinciding with the launch of the new Kidds Adventure Land, this is going to be a jam-packed day out with EL’s finest crafters, live music, kids entertainment and a special visit from Father Christmas himself! From 11am until 3pm.
Share the Christmas spirit at Maren Oppi-Plaas this year. From 15th – 24th December the venue will be adorned with a beautiful display of Christmas lights (from 5pm). On both 15th for the switching on of the lights and the 24th there will also be an opportunity to Bring & Braai. The 22nd sees a special Christmas Market where Santa will be making a special appearance and handing out gifts that you bring. Maren Oppi-Plaas is situated on the N6 towards Stutterheim.
16th December
The peaceful haven that is Kidd’s Beach certainly comes alive during the holiday season and every year they hold a lovely market on the Village Green. Attracting both holiday makers and locals alike, this is a vibrant event not to be missed.
17th December
For a market with a difference head to the Gardener’s Market at Kim’s Corner where you will find gifts for the green fingers plus vintage/second hand goodies, kiddies face painting, garden decor and fairy gardens, all under a flourishing grapevine. From 9am onwards.
21st December
Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the Bunkers Christmas Market with the whole family. With over 40 stalls each selling unique gifts, this is the perfect opportunity for some last minute shopping! All taking place at the Old Selbornian Club on the Circus Field and with the bonus of some awesome live entertainment from Daniel Anderson.
Head to Tea in the Trees for an all around awesome vibe with delicious food stalls and stunning live music from Wendy Oldfield and Robin Auld. Christmas shopping with a difference! All the fun starts at 5pm. R50 entry fee.
23rd December
Bring your blankets and enjoy Carols & Picnic Supper at Community Life Church, it’s going to be a beautiful event!
A trip to Kidd’s Beach is always worth it, especially when the Avalon Craft & Country Market is on! Take the family for a day out and visit this market with a wide variety of stalls including clothing, vintage and deli foods as well as pony rides and live music. Open from 9am till 2pm. If you miss this event however, there will be another market on the 30th December and again on 6th January!
29th December
Well Christmas Day may have come and gone but that doesn’t mean the festivities have to come to an end! Stay in the Christmas spirit with this special Craft Fair at OppiePlaas Haga Haga and browse high quality, original, self-made arts & crafts such as paintings, pottery, fabric painting, jewellery, weaving, embroidery, clothing, bead & wire work, preserves and cheese…to name but a few!