KENT ’ S
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
DAYSOUT
WARM YOUR SOUL AND BRIGHTEN YOUR ADVENT AT ONE ( OR ALL !) OF KENT ’ S CHRISTMAS MARKETS ; THE MERRIEST OF EVENTS TO ATTEND THIS DECEMBER .
FESTIVE MARKETPLACE AT FOLKESTONE HARBOUR ARM
Kent is packed with bustling festive markets in the lead up to Christmas . With everything from traditional outdoor markets in towns to chalet-style huts by the sea , expect a plethora of independent traders promising visitors some marvellous artisan shopping experiences . Whether you are choosing gifts for a loved one , wanting to stock up your Christmas parlour with unique delicacies , or simply want to enjoy these special advent festivities that only come once a year , Kent is certain to be the place where you will find your yuletide treasures . From food and drink , clothes and crafts to jewellery , art , sweet treats and beautifully scented soaps ( plus a whole heap of other things you ’ ve never even dreamt of ), these indie traders and markets come in a diverse array , each one promising their own unique Christmas sparkle .
So , get ready to clutch a mulled wine to warm your cold hands as you fully immerse yourself in the sights , scenes and sounds that are sure to get even the most Scrooge-like characters into the festive spirit – right here in The Garden of England .
Rochester Dickensian Christmas Market
Loved for being one of the most atmospheric of Kent ’ s Christmas markets , Rochester has Mr Dickens to thank . Also known as ‘ The Man Who Invented Christmas ’, Charles Dickens was a constant frequenter of Rochester , with the town appearing in some of his works . Although it did not feature in A Christmas Carol , the enchanting Victorian approach to Christmas floats through Rochester ’ s lamplit streets setting a spectacular scene . Located in Rochester Castle gardens , the Christmas markets are held over three consecutive weekends , from 25 November until 10 December , Friday to Sunday from 10am . It ’ s the ideal place to search for that special gift and those exciting stocking fillers by wandering around the many craft and trade stalls . Food and drink stalls are available to purchase hot and cold beverages , mulled wine , roasted chestnuts and even Christmas trees and wreaths from Lydia ’ s Florist .
This year , Rochester Christmas Market is featuring a brand new Children ’ s Christmas Village . Mrs Claus and her elves have worked hard to bring your children a magical Christmas experience that includes Christmas stories in Mrs Claus ’ s snug , crafting their own Christmas decorations in the Elves ’ workshop and decorating a festive sweet treat to take home . Tickets for the Children ’ s Christmas Village are £ 10 per child ( ages 4 - 11 ). Adults do not need a ticket .
Whitefriars Christmas Market
An abundance of Christmas-themed Scandi-style stalls in Canterbury ’ s Whitefriars . The delicious aroma of festive treats and mulled wine fill the air and the visual spectacle of handcrafted ornaments , unique gifts and beautiful decorations instil the joy and sparkle of the Christmas season . Your journey through the market will be accompanied by the sweet serenade of Christmas carols and jubilant holiday classics . Santa Claus himself will also be in residence , and his enchanting grotto is the place to share your wish list and receive a special gift .
Festive Marketplace at Folkestone Harbour Arm
The ultimate market by the sea , you won ’ t get Christmas shopping closer to the ocean than at Folkestone Harbour Arm . Running every Friday evening and weekends from 17 November - 24 December , this yuletide spectacle will be the arm ’ s largest ever market , spread across purpose-built huts connected to the Goods Yard and stalls to create one large Christmassy oasis of independent makers , creators and designers , food and drink , and entertainment such as festive films , snow blizzards , live music and carol services . Building on the success of the past two years , returning visitors can expect more decorations , more free films , more entertainment , longer opening hours and even an opportunity to meet Father Christmas .
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