Christmas in Sussex is upon us, with the darker evenings setting in, some of us are tuning into the festive season and planning before diaries are booked up with Christmas holidays, children’s nativities, parties and the rest!
There are many Christmas markets in Sussex this year, brimming with gift ideas, inspiration, handmade crafts and delicious food.
With such variety of what’s on offer, I had to question what the difference between a Christmas fayre, fair and market is?
A Christmas Fayre is a seasonal, themed event, usually held on the run up to Christmas. You will often find festive stalls, Christmas food and drinks, festive entertainment, Santa’s grotto, local makers and a nostalgic atmosphere, hence the use of the word “fayre”.
A fair and a market ordinarily happen all year round; however, there are still plenty of Christmas-themed fairs and markets in Sussex that are bringing the festive vibes.
There are plenty of festive markets and Christmas fairs in Sussex to explore. So grab your reusable bag, grab a hot drink and go and enjoy the warm atmosphere.
Christmas Fayres In Sussex
Christmas Trees and Winter Fayre
Wilderness Wood offers a festive day out with their beautiful Christmas Trees and Winter Fayre. Browse the beautiful locally grown Christmas trees and enjoy a warm, seasonal atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy chestnuts, mince pies, mulled apple juice and cider by the fire, plus barista coffee, hot chocolate, wood-fired pizzas, and local sparkling wine.
The event features live music, craft activities like making decorations and wooden reindeer, and a range of artisan stalls selling pottery, prints, apothecary goods, wreaths, and handmade soaps.
Parking slots are free to book, and admission is complimentary for anyone buying or collecting a tree.
When: 29th November 2025
Where: Wilderness Wood, Main Road, Hadlow Down, East Sussex, TN22 4HJ
Designer and Maker Fair 2025
Charleston’s winter Designer and Maker Fair in November offers a curated selection of sustainably made gifts from over 30 local artists, ceramicists, and makers.
Visitors can browse unique homewares, textiles, clothing, and seasonal presents, or join a festive wreath-making workshop with Nettlewood Flowers.
Charleston’s shop and café will also be open, serving mulled wine, mince pies, and other treats. With exhibitions, house entry, and a wide lineup of talented makers, this is set to be a heart warming, festive day out.
When: 22nd – 23rd November 2025
Where: Charleston in Firle, East Sussex, BN8 6LL
The Night Fair Before Christmas
The NightFair is returning to Brighton this winter for the NightFair Before Christmas market. Running for a whole weekend, with different artists on each day. That means 60+ artists with the finest gothic and alternative art, clothing, décor, jewellery, soft furnishings, ceramics, gifts, candles and of course entomology art.
When: 29th – 30th November 2025
Where: Fabrica gallery, 40 Duke Street, Brighton, BN1 1AG, United Kingdom
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Bolney Christmas Wine Fair
Join Bolney Estate for a festive day of tastings and Christmas shopping at the beautifully adorned venue, with the upcoming Christmas Wine Fair.
Sample their full collection of award-winning wines, discover the ideal bottles for seasonal celebrations or gifting, and browse the shop for local artisan foods, thoughtful presents, and festive inspiration.
Your ticket includes a branded ISO tasting glass and can be redeemed against any purchase of 6 bottles or more on the day. The Eighteen Acre Restaurant is open for lunch and will be serving festive small plates from 5pm to 9pm, this needs to be booked ahead of time however.
When: 29th November 2025
Where: Bolney Wine Estate, Foxhole Ln, Bolney, Haywards Heath, RH17 5NB
Christmas Fair, Cumnor House
Browse over 50 festive stalls at this wonderful Christmas Fair at Cumnor House. Showcasing a range of products from health and beauty, homewares, gifts, fashion and delicious treats.
The Cumnor Café opens from midday, which is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of festive fizz. There will be homemade cakes and bakes and a wonderful, warm atmosphere.
When: 28th November 2025
Where: London Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 7HT
Frost Fair
The much-loved St Leonards Frost Fair is back, bringing its signature wintry parade to town. Kings Road will be buzzing all day with a festive market packed with handmade goods, local makers, and live music.
Meanwhile, the cafés and independent shops along London Road, Kings Road, Norman Road, and nearby streets will be open, ready to offer a warm welcome to visitors. This is one of our favourite Christmas days out in Sussex.
When: 29th November 2025
Where: Kings Road and Central Street, St Leonards on Sea
Whatlington Christmas Fair
The Whatlington Christmas Fair is set to offer a range of vintage, handmade and eco-friendly goods. Enjoy a stroll through this festive community fair with a range of sweet and savoury treats on offer to enjoy. There is free parking on-site, with a 50p entry fee, and these proceeds go to the NSPCC.
When: 7th December 2025
Where: Whatlington Village Hall
Christmas Fair & Market, Bognor Regis
A festive Christmas Market with crafters, small businesses, and local artists. Discover unique, locally made gifts, seasonal treats & our Festive Café. Father Christmas will be making a special visit, so make sure to bring your wish lists.
When: Sunday 7th December 2025 | 10:30am – 3:30pm
Where: Westmeads Community Centre, The Precinct, Westmeads, Bognor Regis, PO21 5SB
Christmas Craft Fair & Santas Grotto
Explore over 50 local crafters with amazing handmade gift ideas at this Worthing Christmas Craft Fair. There will be Christmas music, gorgeous food & drinks with baileys hot chocolate & Irish coffee to keep you warm while you browse and enjoy the day.
When: 30th November 2025
Where: Durrington High School, The Boulevard, Worthing, West Sussex, Bn131jx
Broadwater Parish Christmas Fair
A popular and established Christmas Fair in the atmospheric setting of St. Mary’s Church. Expect a range of local creatives selling gifts, crafts, art and more. There will be a Christmas grotto, café, children’s crafts and live choirs from the community.
When: 13th December 2025
Where: St Mary’s Church, Broadwater, Worthing, BN14 8H
So This is Christmas Fair Worthing
So This is Christmas is returning to Worthing for its 10th anniversary. Inside, you will find a world of magical festive finds, with over 70 stalls there will be something for everyone.
There will also be face painting, homemade bakes, live performers and lots of extras to explore. The fairs are the perfect opportunity to get handmade and one off items, and avoid the stress and queues of the high street.
You will be supporting St. Barnabas Hospice, alongside local talented designers and makers.
When: 7th December 2025, 10:30-15:30
Where: The Charmandean Centre, Forest Road, BH14 9HS
Christmas Markets in Sussex
Sussex Christmas Markets have a tonne of variety to offer. Offering delicious, festive food and drinks and a variety of crafts and artisan goods.
Christmas markets in Sussex are among the best in the UK, thanks to the incredible creative talent we have here. Why not plan an enjoyable day out to get you in the festive spirit?
Christmas Markets East Sussex
Meads Magic in Eastbourne
Beautiful Meads Street will be lined with stalls filled with festive activities, a Christmas market with local produce and arts and crafts, plus entertainers, a Christmas parade and Santa’s Grotto.
When: 28 November 2025
Where: Meads Street, Eastbourne
Seven Sisters Christmas Market
Get into the festive spirit at Seven Sisters Christmas Market with mulled wine and mince pies or a warming hot chocolate during your visit. Browse over 40 stalls of local artists and makers providing the perfect opportunity for some unique Christmas gift shopping.
When: 6th – 7th December 2025
Where: Stalls located in the Visitor Centre, Pump Barn, Turkey Barn and Saltmarsh Farmhouse
Brighton Open Market Christmas Events
Brighton Open Market will be displaying a range of markets this Christmas, with a selection of local food makers, crafters and artists.
When: 22nd, 29th November, 6th December, 13th December, 20th December 2025
Where: Brighton Open Market, Marshalls Row, Brighton and Hove, BN1 4JU
Eastbourne Christmas Markets
Eastbourne Christmas Market is popular each year. Beautiful Meads Street will be lined with stalls filled with festive activities, a Christmas market with local produce and arts and crafts, plus entertainers, a Christmas parade and Santa’s Grotto.
When: 28th Nov 2025, Open 14:30 – 19:30
Where: Mead Street, Eastbourne, BR20 7RG
Christmas Markets West Sussex
Weald and Downland Christmas Market
Visit Weald and Downland Christmas Market and explore the living museum on site. You can get prepared for Christmas by visiting the boutique market stalls located around the Museum grounds, with around 100 hand-selected stallholders representing the best in arts, crafts and food from the weald region.
There will also be lots to see, do and hear over the weekend, with the opportunity to meet the donkeys, enjoy festive treats and say hello to Father Christmas as he is busy working in his festive workshop. Booking is essential with limited tickets left.
When: 22nd and 23rd November 2025
Where: Weald & Downland Museum, Town Lane, Singleton, Chichester, West Sussex PO18 0EU
Grittenham Barn Christmas Market
Grittenham Barn Christmas Market offers breath taking views of the South Downs, with a fantastic array of gifts and homewares. This traditional Sussex barn will be decked out, with food and hot drinks available to enjoy.
When: 21st & 22nd November 2025
Where: Grittenham Barn Tillington, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 0PG
Shoreham Christmas Makers Market
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at this year’s Shoreham’s unique Christmas Makers Market. Packed with over 50 talented local artists and makers, this makes the perfect opportunity to purchase a bespoke, special gift for someone.
There will be live music, freshly baked treats, and a generally wonderful atmosphere to be expected. There will be attractions for little ones with face painting and drop-in Christmas Crafts workshops.
When: 6th December 2025 – 10:00 till 15:30
Where: The Shoreham Centre, Pond Road, Shoreham-by-Sea, BN43 5WU
Ardingly Winter Fair
Visitors to the Ardingly Winter Fair can shop until they drop from a large selection of stalls boasting artisan products, gifts, and food and drink from independent and local vendors.
It‘s not just about the shopping; there’s also festive fun to be had. Families can enjoy the giant snow globe for a perfect Christmas card photo or join one of the elf workshops with Mistletoe the Elf.
A street food area featuring live music, plus a children’s funfair, and a Santa’s Grotto are also part of the weekend (with additional charges for these activities).
When: 22-23 November 2025
Where: Selsfield Rd, Haywards Heath RH17 6TL
Chichester Christmas Markets
The festive celebrations will bring Chichester’s Christmas Markets to town, taking over East and North Street, where you can find a mouthwatering selection of festive food and drink from local vendors, as well as Christmas gifts.
When: 6 – 7 and 13 – 14 December 2025
Where: East and North Street, Chichester
Light Up Shoreham Christmas Market
Light Up Shoreham Christmas Market is an annual festive event in Shoreham-by-Sea that transforms the town with a Christmas market, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
It typically includes stalls with gifts and crafts, local businesses staying open late, food and drink, and a funfair or rides. The event features music, light installations, and other seasonal entertainment. The shop windows all dazzle with their wonderful, festive displays, too!
When: 12th December 2025
Where: Shoreham-by-Sea Centre
Arundel Christmas Market
Arundel Christmas Market is hosted by the White Swan in Arundel. Expect a market with Christmas crafts and gifts, Santa’s Grotto (to be booked in advance), carol singers, hot baps and Christmas trees for sale.
When: 1st December 3-9pm
Where: The White Swan, Arundel
The Sussex Guild Contemporary Craft Show
The Sussex Guild Contemporary Craft Show offers a superb variety of beautifully handmade items. Come and peruse an array of unique ceramics, furniture, glass, jewellery, leatherwork, knitwear, prints, silversmith, woodwork, textile art and more.
There is a cafe on site for hot drinks and refreshments. Why not make a day of it and discover the beautiful town that is Midhurst?
When: 6th & 7th December 2025
Where: Midhurst Rother College, Midhurst, West Sussex, GU29 9DT
Chichesters Indoor Christmas Markets
The Chichesters Indoor Christmas Markets will have up to 100 independent businesses from Sussex, Hampshire and beyond showcasing their festive products at Westgate Leisure Centre in Chichester this Christmas!
Treat yourself or a loved one to an abundance of unique products at this not-to-be-missed event. This is one of our favourite Christmas markets in West Sussex.
When: Sunday, 16th of November 2025
Where: Westgate Leisure Centre, Chichester, PO19 1RJ
Petworth Christmas Makers Market
Christmas in Sussex would not be the same without the Petworth Christmas Makers Market. It is a festive shopping event held in the stunning backdrop of Petworth House. Petworth House is decadently decorated each year.
The makers market is located within the Battery House and will showcase a range of jewellery, art and homewares. There will be an array of unique Christmas gifts to browse.
This event is perfect for those looking to combine a cultural visit to Petworth House with some holiday shopping. National Trust entry fees still apply.
When: 29th and 30th November 2025
Where: Petworth House, Petworth GU28 9LR
Denmans Garden Christmas Market
Denmans Gardens Christmas Market and Midpines Cafe welcome in the festive season with this quaint showcase of local goods and crafts. The plant centre makes for a welcome stop off for all those green fingers.
When: 28th and 29th November 2025
Where: Denmans Garden, Denmans Lane, Fontwell, BN18 0SU
Christmas Markets Near Sussex
Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets
The Winchester Cathedral Christmas Markets are definitely some of the more elaborate Christmas markets than we have here in Sussex. They are known as some of the best Christmas markets in Europe, with over 100 wooden chalets to browse.
With a range of handcrafted goods, crafts, gifts and delicious food to choose from, all with the backdrop of the stunning Winchester Cathedral. Why not visit the stunning cathedral on your day out
When: 21st November – 22nd December 2025
Where: Winchester Cathedral, 9 The Close, Winchester SO23 9LS, UK
Water Lane, Kent
Experience the magic of Christmas in Sussex at the Water Lane Christmas Market, running from Friday 29th November to Sunday 1st December
Set within the beautiful surroundings of Water Lane, this festive weekend features a curated selection of artisan stalls offering handmade crafts, jewellery, vegan soaps, and luxury knitwear, alongside delicious food and drink.
Enjoy festive treats, hot mulled wine, and seasonal dishes from the on-site restaurant as you browse Christmas trees and indoor plants, all to the backdrop of cosy holiday cheer. Entry is £5 per person, with free admission for children under 16.
When: 29th & 30th November 2025
Where: Walled Garden, Water Lane, Hawkhurst, Kent, TN18 5DH
We hope you have found this round-up of as many Christmas markets in Sussex helpful. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from Secret Sussex.