A Very Blackpool Christmas

Now in its fourth year, Blackpool Winter Gardens Trust is hosting Blackpool Creative Christmas Market on Saturday 29th November, bringing over 50 local independent traders together under one roof.

We all know that Christmas is a time for giving, but with the busy lives we lead, we are often forced into spending a fortune on mass-produced goods that line the pockets of big corporations.

But, Blackpool Creative Market is offering an alternative; a festive experience to be enjoyed with family and friends. We are bringing together 50 local independent traders under one roof for Blackpool’s biggest Christmas market. And with family entertainment and crafty workshops to take part in too, it promises to bring joy and gladness back into the festive period.

On Saturday 29th November the Winter Gardens Pavilion will be transformed into a festive marketplace with stalls selling handmade crafts, original artwork, artisan jewellery and homeware and so much more. The stalls are hosted by Blackpool artists and makers selling their unique products, meaning you’ll be supporting local independent traders and purchasing sustainable gifts that are good for the planet and good for your pocket too.

This is the fourth annual Blackpool Christmas Creative Market hosted by the Winter Gardens Trust, and started by Blackpool’s High Street Heritage Action Zone project which aims to use Blackpool’s high street heritage as a catalyst for bringing new and diverse uses to the town centre.

This event is made all the more special by being hosted in one of Blackpool’s most iconic and cherished venues. Host organisation The Winter Gardens Trust was set up to raise awareness of the significance of the spectacular grade II* listed Blackpool Winter Gardens and to support its repair and restoration. The Trust can’t wait to welcome shoppers to the market so that they can enjoy the heritage venue and leave filled with the yuletide spirit, and with their Christmas shopping wrapped up so that they can enjoy the rest of the festive season.

This year, our fabulous event has expanded to incorporate the beautiful Floral Hall. Steeped in history and art deco glamour, walking through this space is an experience in itself. Shoppers can take in the architecture and history whilst seeking out that perfect Christmas gift.

Great gifts from local artists and makers

Many artists will be selling their work at the Christmas Creative Market, including Robin Ross, a highly acclaimed local artist. Hot off the back of their feature at Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair, we have Sana with digital and traditional art that aims to raise awareness about invisible illnesses, and welcoming back Sarah Pugsley of Coxyart with prints inspired by Fylde Coast landmarks that make a perfect gift for anyone who’s rightly proud of our vibrant hometown.

There will be tonnes of inspiration for stocking fillers for children, with traders including Josh Ford (aka The Bearded Sewist) selling their handmade plushies, Hex Gregson of Hexagram Designs with their Studio Ghibli inspired crocheted characters and Emily Moore of Foxhat who will have cute stickers and accessories which are sure to put a big smile on your face.

There will also be a variety of ceramics, 3D printed crafts, jewellery, toiletries, candles, specialist teas, beauty products, one of a kind homewares and much more. Textile lovers can discover everything from hand-knitted baby clothes, hair accessories, tote bags and soft furnishings such as cushions and blankets.

More than just stalls

As if our fantastic range of stalls wasn’t enough, we have also invited two more local creatives to host sustainability-themed workshops – inviting visitors to drop in and try their hand at making something christmassy themselves.

Monica Wardle from The Crafty Cloth - Make a lovely wreath out of left over fabric too small to create with but too good to go in the bin. She’ll have fabrics of all textures and colours for you to create something special for your tree, or maybe give as a gift.

The Christmas Story Mixing Station by Magical Story Jars - Immerse yourself in this imagination-sparking experience. Using prompts, creativity and a sprinkle of magic dust, create your very own unique Christmas Story jar. An item to be treasured for years to come.

Highlight on Original Ideas

Three local creatives who are bringing unique, individual items to this year’s market, talk to us about how they’re looking forward to sharing them with you this festive period.

James & Michelle, Craft Landing “Craft Landing is so excited to be part of the Blackpool Creative Market this Christmas! It’s a wonderful opportunity to share our handmade keepsakes, stocking fillers and personalised gifts with customers who love something a little different and truly personal. We can’t wait to soak up the festive atmosphere, meet other local makers, and help shoppers find unique presents made with love.”

Omani Hamner - One Hope Artistry “Omani Hanmer at One Hope Artistry will be offering Unique A3 Art Prints on 300gsm paper for £10.00, Freestyle Mandala Original artwork on circle canvas, as well as providing Organic Henna Applications to those who would love decoration on their skin temporarily. To remember their beautiful time at the Market!”

Teddy - The Beardist Sewist “I’m really looking forward to getting into the festivities and playing shop at The Winter Gardens! I can’t wait to show this year’s cute little plushies!”