It’s the most wonderful time of the year in Kingston
The Kingston Christmas Market opened last Thursday (14th November), welcoming everyone to join in the festive spirit until January 5, 2025.
Located in the historic Ancient Market Place in Kingston, the market is fully pedestrianised.
At the centre of the market, the beautifully decorated pyramid-stage bar serves a range of festive drinks.
One of the highlights of the market is the Nutcracker Trail, which offers a festive family-friendly adventure.
Visitors can collect their maps for the trail from Waterstones, the Rose Theatre or Cass Art, and follow the adventure along to defeat the evil King Rat and save Christmas.
Once completed, participants can send their trail sheets to “Santa’s Postbox” for a chance to win a Christmas hamper.
Renee Smith, who works on the hot chocolate stand in the markets, said that this year “there have been a lot of improvements with the decorations.”
When asked why people should visit, Smith said, “It’s just the spirit of Christmas. It’s Christmas every day here at the market.”
Inside the market, visitors will find food and drink stalls and live music. The Original Bratwurst serves up hot dogs, while those craving something sweet can try Dutch pancakes, Belgian waffles or pick ‘n’ mix .
Kingston College student Bluebell McBride said she thought the market was “a bit overpriced” but enjoyed the live music. She said: “This year it feels like more people are hearing about it. It’s nice because I brought my friends with me this time.”
Outside of the main market square, visitors can explore the shopping stalls.
Stalls include Happy Vanilla Crochet, run by Yina Wan, which sells handmade crochet items at the market for the first time this year.
Wan said: “I quite like the environment, it is warm, and I quite like the market itself”.
Other gift options include Babel Art, who make framed scrabble art, and Edwin Berry Candles, selling handmade candles and accessories.
If you’re looking for ornaments for your Christmas tree, check out the Xmas Castle stand, which features a wide variety of festive decorations.
For entertainment, the market has live music almost every day, with artists such as The Pink Tiger, Jade Thornton, and The Basement Door performing throughout the season.
Every Tuesday evening, the market hosts an open mic from 6 pm onwards. Those wishing to perform need to sign up by 5:30 pm and will be rewarded with a free mulled wine or cider (soft drinks for those under 18) after their performance.
The Kingston Christmas Market opens at 10am daily. The market will close early at 5:30 pm on December 24th and will remain closed all day on December 25th.
Also Read: The best non-alcoholic drink options in Kingston pubs – Kingston Courier
