Culture Editor Janie Smith shares her favourite Christmas markets and tells us about the history of this festive tradition…
It’s Christmasssssssssssssssssssssssss as Noddy Holder reminds us everywhere we go! At Lady Wimbledon we are feeling fabulously festive hot on the heels of our fun filled Wimbledon Christmas party. It’s time now though to pop our dancing shoes away until the next big gathering and go and find some beautiful yuletide gifts. We love combining our shopping with the true cosy spirit of the season and that means Christmas markets. So, wrap up warm and soak up the atmosphere of tradition and merriment.
LOVE WIMBLEDON CHRISTMAS MARKET ON THE PIAZZA
You won’t have too far to find an exciting and vibrant local festive fayre this year. A quick visit into Wimbledon’s town centre will take you to the annual Wimbledon Christmas Market on the Piazza. Filled with twinkling lights, festive aromas and bustling stalls, you can pick up uniquely crafted gifts, work from local artists and international curiosities. Why not shop locally this year and support your local artisans?
When: Open 11am – 6pm each Friday, Saturday and Sunday until Christmas. Open 11am – 7pm on 13th December and 20th December
Where: The Piazza, The Broadway, Wimbledon, London SW19 1QB
More Information: Visit lovewimbledon.org/wimbledon-christmas-market
KINGSTON CHRISTMAS MARKET
Slightly further afield and set in the historical market area is Kingston’s Festive Market. Expect traditional Bavarian style wooden huts with artisans offering you a wonderful opportunity to eat, drink and shop to your hearts content!
When: Open 14th – 24th December daily
Where: Front lawn of All Saints Church, Kingston
Booking: click here (link) to book tickets
More Information: Visit inkingston.co.uk/christmasmarket
THE HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS MARKETS
Christmas markets first appeared in mainland Europe way back in Medieval times. Munich still hosts, amongst it’s seven markets, a traditional medieval experience; you will even get your mulled wine served in clay mugs! This beautiful Bavarian city offers the ultimate winter wonderland with vendors selling had carved ornaments, toys and so much more. Warm yourself up with the exquisitely aromatic glühwein and satisfy your hunger with the amazing waffeln or kartoffelkuechen served with piping hot apple sauce! The largest of the “Markts” can be found on the fairy-tale Marienplatz. Froehe Weihnacthen!
If you fancy combining romance with festive cheer weekend you can’t beat the romanticism of the Parisian Marche Noel. Located across several iconic surroundings, including the spectacular Notre Dame, you can purchase that special ornament to adorn your tree every year as well as take in the vibrancy and aromas of the season. Bon Noel!
We hope you love our recommendations and wish you an incredible Christmas!
Editor: Janie Smith | Arts & Culture Editor
Instagram: @SW19Culture
Twitter: @SW19Culture
Email: cultureeditor@ladywimbledon.com
About The Author
Janie Smith
Janie Smith is a cup full of sass and the Culture Queen isn’t letting anything limit her. Whether she’s jet setting around the world or catching up on the latest shows she always has her ear to the ground.