Can’t face the hustle and bustle of a busy Oxford Street this weekend? Need to get that Christmas shopping sorted? Why not try one of these alternative festive fairs instead…
AFRORETRO’s Make and Create Kits
Christmas Craft Fair at Battersea Arts Centre
When: 2nd December 2017, 10am – 6pm
Where: Battersea Arts Centre, Lavender Hill, London SW11 5TN
£: Free admission
What is it?
This Saturday, Battersea Arts Centre will be hosting a festive fair where independent designers, makers and artisans will offer a range of hand crafted gifts.
Alongside seasonal shopping, visitors can enjoy live music, DIY gingerbread men workshops, a Merry Reggae BBQ, and the chance to meet the man of the moment, Father Christmas.
Stall holders will include South London Artist Dan; AFRORETRO selling fashion, upcycled jewellery, and craft kits; Baking Bright; and The Marching Pencils. There’ll also be stalls from Ruth Bees Jewellery, Sign Smith and Snebpots.
So, if you’re looking for some alternative or unique presents this year, Battersea Arts Centre might be a good place to start.
More info: www.bac.org.uk
Pear Tree Christmas Market
Pear Tree Christmas Market in Battersea Park
When: 2nd & 3rd December 2017, from 11am
Where: Pear Tree Cafe, Battersea Park, London SW11 4NJ
£: Free admission
What is it?
On both Saturday and Sunday in Battersea Park, Pear Tree Cafe’s charming terrace will host a Christmas Market selling artisan food and drink, and handmade and luxury gifts.
Market-goers will be able to build personalised hampers by picking up a basket and filling it with their loved one’s favourite treats and trinkets. There’ll also be a BBQ, raclette stand, marshmallow fire pit, spiced mulled wines and warming cocktails.
Vendors will include foodie favourites such as Alpages Swiss Alpine Cheese, relishes and chutney from Rubies in the Rubble, loose leaf tea and ware from Good and Proper Tea and sparkling wines from Wiston Estate. For design lovers, handmade woven rugs from Francesca Gentilli, playful shoes from Rouge Matilda and whimsical stationery from South London Letter Press will be on offer.
As the frosty evening draws near, the Saturday Night Market will be filled with carol singers and festivities. The cafe will be putting on an evening supper with views overlooking the market and the wintry park, serving seasonal dishes such as turkey schnitzel brioche buns with cranberry sauce. Look out for the Pear Tree Hatch handing out sausage rolls, hot chocolate, mince pies and mulled cider.
More info: www.peartreecafe.co.uk/events
Garmhaus Christmas Pop Up Vintage Market
Garmhaus Christmas Pop Up Vintage Market at Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen
When: 3rd December 2017, 1pm – 9pm
Where: Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen, 2-4 Hoxton Square, London N1 6NU
£: Free admission
What is it?
Garmhaus is coming to the capital for the first time, taking over Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen in Shoreditch, for a festive pop up. Expect DJs, sequins, live art, bands, clothes galore and Christmas cocktails.
The venue will be transformed into a festive vintage haven, showcasing seasonal collections from clothing vendors and upcoming independent brands from all over the UK. Vendors will include M21 Vintage, Varsity Vintage, Ricks Retro, Couture Costumes and Secret Street Tailors.
As well as Christmas shopping opportunities, the event will also host Christmas workshops, live art, and one of Wales best Barbers. In the live room, Peggy’s Big Sunday and QM records will be providing live music from 5pm, with up and coming bands taking to the stage. Expect an additional selection of live art, jewellery, young visionaries from across the UK showcasing their creativity, mulled wine and Christmas cocktails. Food will be provided by hot sauce masters Orange Buffalo, serving up New York style wings and Buffalo Chicken Burgers.
More info: www.facebook.com/events