As Christmas approaches, towns, villages and countryside venues across Sussex get into the festive spirit with Christmas markets, makers’ fairs and seasonal shopping events. From independent designers and artisan gifts to local food, drink and handmade decorations, there are plenty of opportunities to find something special while supporting local businesses.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional Christmas market, a chance to meet local makers or a festive day out with family and friends, you’ll find events taking place across East Sussex, West Sussex and Brighton throughout November and December.
Here are some of the Christmas markets and festive fairs confirmed for 2026. Dates and details can change, so do please check the organiser’s website before travelling.
Weald & Downland Living Museum Christmas Market
Location: Singleton, near Chichester, West Sussex
Date: 21–22 November 2026
More information: Weald & Downland Living Museum Christmas Market
Set within the historic buildings and picturesque grounds of the Weald & Downland Living Museum, this popular Christmas market brings together up to 100 artisan and maker stalls. Browse handmade gifts, crafts and seasonal food, with the opportunity to explore the museum as part of your visit. Advance booking is essential.
Towner Christmas Fair
Location: Towner Eastbourne, East Sussex
Date: 6–8 November 2026
More information: Towner Christmas Fair
Get an early start on your Christmas shopping at Towner Eastbourne’s Christmas Fair. The event brings together independent artists, designers and makers, offering an opportunity to browse original gifts and handmade pieces in the gallery’s creative setting. Entry is free.
Charleston Designer and Maker Fair
Location: Charleston, Firle, East Sussex
Date: 21–22 November 2026
More information: Charleston's Designer and Maker Fair
Find thoughtful and imaginative Christmas gifts at Charleston’s winter Designer and Maker Fair. More than 30 independent makers are expected to showcase their work, with a selection of creative pieces and seasonal gifts to browse in the distinctive surroundings of this historic arts venue.
South of England Winter Fair
Location: South of England Showground, Ardingly, West Sussex
Date: 21–22 November 2026
More information: South of England Winter Fair
The South of England Winter Fair is a festive shopping event featuring independent traders, crafts, gifts, decorations and food. With a wide variety of stalls and seasonal activities, it’s a good option for browsing for presents and enjoying a winter day out. Admission tickets are available online, with free entry for under-16s.
Grittenham Barn Christmas Market
Location: Tillington, near Petworth, West Sussex
Date: 20–21 November 2026
More information: Grittenham Barn Christmas Market
Head to Grittenham Barn for a countryside Christmas market filled with handmade gifts, homewares, crafts and festive treats. Set across the barn and adjoining rustic buildings, the event supports the Sussex Snowdrop Trust. Entry is £4, with children admitted free.
West Dean Christmas Market
Location: West Dean, near Chichester, West Sussex
Date: 27–28 November 2026
More information: West Dean Christmas Market
West Dean’s Christmas Market offers a festive opportunity to browse arts, crafts, food and gift stalls in the beautiful surroundings of West Dean. With the market spread across the historic college and gardens, it makes a lovely seasonal outing and a chance to find something a little different for Christmas.
Petworth House Christmas Makers Market
Location: Petworth, West Sussex
Date: 28–29 November 2026
More information: Christmas at Petworth House
Part of the festive programme at Petworth House, the Christmas Makers Market brings together artisan stalls in the grounds of this impressive National Trust property. Browse seasonal gifts and handmade pieces, and make time to enjoy the house’s Christmas decorations while you’re there. Check the National Trust website for the latest market and admission details.
Burgess Hill Christmas Festival
Location: Burgess Hill town centre, West Sussex
Date: 26–29 November 2026
More information: Burgess Hill Christmas Festival
Burgess Hill’s Christmas Festival brings festive stalls, shopping and seasonal entertainment to the town centre. Browse the Christmas chalets for gifts and food, enjoy the programme of activities and soak up the atmosphere as the town celebrates the start of the festive season.
Seven Sisters Christmas Market
Location: Seven Sisters Country Park, Exceat, East Sussex
Date: 5–6 December 2026
More information: Seven Sisters Christmas Market
Set within the beautiful surroundings of Seven Sisters Country Park, this Christmas market is a chance to browse gifts, crafts and products from local makers and producers. With the South Downs and coast on the doorstep, you can combine a little festive shopping with a winter walk. Entry is free, although parking charges apply.
Kinsbrook Christmas Market
Location: Kinsbrook Vineyard, Thakeham, West Sussex
Date: 5–6 December 2026
More information: Kinsbrook Christmas Market
Enjoy a festive visit to Kinsbrook Vineyard, where more than 20 local producers and makers are expected to offer food, drink, crafts and gifts. From ceramics and jewellery to seasonal produce, it’s a lovely place to pick up something special while enjoying the vineyard setting. Entry and on-site parking are free.
Shoreham Christmas Makers Fair
Location: The Shoreham Centre, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex
Date: 5 December 2026
More information: Shoreham Christmas Makers Fair
Discover independent makers and small businesses at this free Christmas fair in Shoreham. With more than 75 traders expected, the stalls will include ceramics, jewellery, artwork, homewares and food. There will also be optional creative workshops for anyone who fancies making something of their own.
One Garden Brighton Winter Festival
Location: One Garden Brighton, Stanmer Park, Brighton
Date: 4–6 and 11–13 December 2026
More information: One Garden Brighton Winter Festival
One Garden Brighton’s Winter Festival brings together local makers, seasonal food, music and festive activities over two weekends. Set within the gardens at Stanmer Park, it offers a relaxed setting for browsing independent stalls and enjoying a little Christmas atmosphere. Entry is free, with some workshops and activities available at an additional cost.
Christmas at Fishbourne Roman Palace
Location: Fishbourne, near Chichester, West Sussex
Date: 5–6 December 2026
More information: Christmas at Fishbourne Roman Palace
Combine a little history with your Christmas shopping at Fishbourne Roman Palace. The palace’s festive weekend includes local makers’ stalls alongside the chance to explore one of Sussex’s most fascinating historic attractions. Entry to the event is £5 for adults, with free admission for children and Sussex Past members.
Tuppenny Barn Christmas Market
Location: Southbourne, West Sussex
Date: 6 December 2026
More information: Tuppenny Barn Christmas Market
Tuppenny Barn’s Christmas Market is a lovely opportunity to find locally made and thoughtfully sourced gifts. Alongside visiting artisans and producers, expect festive wreaths, hampers, preserves and handmade items from the Tuppenny Barn team. There will also be a pop-up café, and entry is free.
So This Is Christmas Craft Fair
Location: The Charmandean, Worthing, West Sussex
Date: 6 December 2026
More information: So This Is Christmas Craft Fair
The Fairy Tale Fair returns with its So This Is Christmas craft fair in Worthing. Browse a selection of handmade gifts and independent stalls, with the event also raising funds for St Barnabas House hospice. It’s a good opportunity to support local makers while getting a few more presents ticked off your list.
Midhurst Contemporary Craft Show
Location: Midhurst Rother College, Midhurst, West Sussex
Date: 5–6 December 2026
More information: Midhurst Contemporary Craft Show
Organised by the Sussex Guild, this contemporary craft show brings together more than 50 designer-makers showcasing original work. Expect a varied selection of ceramics, textiles, jewellery, glass, wood and other handmade pieces, making it a good place to find distinctive gifts created by skilled craftspeople.
Christmas shopping in Sussex
From independent makers’ fairs and vineyard markets to festive events in historic houses and country parks, Sussex has plenty of ways to enjoy a little seasonal shopping in 2026. Whether you’re searching for handmade presents, local food and drink or simply an enjoyable festive day out, these markets offer a chance to discover the people and businesses behind some of the county’s most creative products.
