Just a five-minute walk from London Liverpool Street station, Spitalfields Market (spitalfields.co.uk) is set to become the ultimate festive destination spreading holiday cheer. From Wednesday 12 November, Bishops Square will be transformed into a pop-up Christmas experience – complete with dazzling brand-new festive lighting displays and cosy chalets serving delicious seasonal food and drinks.
Throughout the festive period, visitors can enjoy a range of family-friendly activities that make for the perfect festive day out, from live choirs, festive crafts, a brand-new Gingerbread Hut and more. Whether you’re here to shop for unique gifts, explore the festive market or indulge in winter treats, Spitalfields has everything you need to make this Christmas truly unforgettable.
Pop up Christmas Experience in Bishops Square
From Wednesday 12th November, Bishops Square will be transformed into a pop-up Christmas village, with cozy chalets serving delicious seasonal food and drinks, and a Gingerbread House hosting a range of festive activations.
The festive chalet bar will be serving mulled wine, hot chocolates (served with Malibu rum for adults), winterberry spritz, espresso martinis, festive pina coladas, beers, ciders, coffees and soft drinks. Every weekday from 5-6pm, Bishops Square will come alive with a special happy hour to enjoyed discounted Malibu cocktails.
There will also be artisan food from specialised global food traders serving dishes including; churros, cheesy Khachapuris and parmesan truffle fries.
Festive Activities
Building on last year’s success, Light the World will be returning to Spitalfields with a programme of festive activities to delight families and spread holiday cheer – this includes:
Santa Claus meet & greet – visitors can take a festive photo with Santa Claus and his elves, sharing a seasonal moment together. Free for everyone to enjoy, the meet and greet will take place on Saturday 6th December (2pm – 4:10pm)
From Saturday 6th December, there will be Light the World Machines placed in Spitalfields to spread Christmas joy and invite visitors to donate directly to charities such as The Felix Project. Donations will aid causes such as clean water, meals for vulnerable children, hygiene products, clothing and much more.
Christmas Lights
Spitalfields will be transformed into a festive spectacle. The market will feature twinkling LED lights overhead, and charming candy cane-decorated pillars on Lamb Street. Adding to the ambiance, Bishops Square will shine with neon festive lights nestled in the trees.
Artisan Market
The Market is filled with a variety of stalls where you can find hidden gems and unique artisanal gifts for your loved ones to remember this Christmas, from jewellery to one-of-a-kind artwork, there is something for everyone. Spitalfields Market is home to over 90 independent traders offering contemporary and vintage fashion, music, jewellery and accessories (open every day), as well as the Arts Market in Crispin Place open Friday – Sunday supporting both up-and-coming and established local artists.
Christmas shopping and dining hotspot
Spitalfields is positioned as the essential destination for holiday shopping, combining high-street favourites with a unique selection of independent traders. Visitors will find popular brands such as Astrid & Miyu, OMNES, Malin & Goetz, ON, Rains, Earl of East and Glassworks. In addition to over 90 independent traders, don’t miss the Arts Market from Friday 5th December – Sunday 7th December, where up-and-coming artists will be selling a range of affordable original works. The market also guarantees a unique and personal gift for everyone, from bespoke fashion and jewellery to accessories and music, showcasing a true collection of hidden, artisanal gems.
With a wide range of street food vendors, bars and dining options, visitors can refuel after a day of Christmas shopping. If you’re looking for something more casual, you can grab a quick bite from the street food kiosks such as Nigerian Boys, Mamma’s Goodies or Ebby’s Kitchen. For a sit-down meal consider Italian restaurant ALFI, then for a festive drink head to Kill The Cat to explore the 10 different beers on tap or their bottle shop with over one hundred beers to choose from.
