Discover a Handmade Christmas at UK Craft Fairs and Makers’ Markets

If you enjoy finding thoughtful gifts, meeting local makers and discovering something a little different from the usual high-street presents, a Christmas craft fair could be just the festive outing you’re looking for.

The Best Christmas Markets guide to craft fairs and makers’ markets brings together 79 events around the UK for 2026. 

The site says 76 have dates confirmed by their organisers, with the first listed event, Benthall Artisan Christmas Fair in Broseley, opening on Saturday 24 October. The calendar runs into December, with events listed as late as New Year’s Eve. bestchristmasmarkets.co.uk

These are events described by their organisers as craft, artisan or makers’ markets, where stalls are mostly run by people selling things they have made themselves. That gives visitors the chance to browse for handmade decorations, jewellery, artwork, textiles and other gifts, while supporting independent creators. Each fair will have its own character, so there may be new makers and local treasures to discover wherever you visit.

The listings cover England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Choices include Craft in Focus at RHS Garden Wisley, Christmas in Cathedral Square in Birmingham, Cardiff Christmas Market, Ludlow Winter Festival and the Portmeirion Christmas Fair. 

Some events take place over several weeks, while others are one-day fairs or weekend markets. The guide gives dates and, where published, days open and entry information. bestchristmasmarkets.co.uk

Entry arrangements vary. The page currently identifies 33 markets as free to enter and 26 as requiring a ticket or paid admission; for the others, the organisers have not published an entry price. It’s sensible to check the individual event listing and organiser’s website before setting off, especially as opening days can vary during a fair’s run. bestchristmasmarkets.co.uk

The guide also includes a map and links to other types of Christmas market, making it easier to explore options by location or style. Whether you’re planning a festive day out, hoping to find a present with a personal touch, or simply love browsing handmade work, it’s a useful place to start.

Take a look at the 2026 Christmas craft fairs and makers’ markets guide and see what’s happening near you. Check dates, times, tickets and travel details with the organisers before you go, as event information can change.

https://bestchristmasmarkets.co.uk/types/craft-fairs

The Best Christmas Stocking Fillers for Adults

Christmas stockings aren't just for children!

In fact, putting together a stocking for an adult can be enormous fun, especially when it contains a mixture of useful items, little luxuries and amusing surprises.

The trick is to avoid filling it with things that will never be used.

For someone who enjoys reading, consider a bookmark, miniature reading light or small puzzle book.

Food lovers might appreciate speciality chocolates, miniature jars of preserves or interesting seasonings.

A keen gardener could enjoy seed packets, plant labels or gardening gloves.

For someone who travels regularly, luggage tags, compact toiletries or a small travel organiser might be welcome.

Practical everyday items can also make excellent stocking fillers.

Think of quality pens, reusable shopping bags, warm socks or a handy phone stand.

And don't forget traditional favourites such as chocolate coins, satsumas and small novelty gifts.

A themed stocking can be particularly effective.

For example, a relaxing evening stocking could contain herbal tea, a paperback book, a scented candle and some chocolate.

Alternatively, a cooking-themed stocking might include unusual spices, a recipe booklet and a small kitchen accessory.

Set a budget before you begin. Small purchases can add up surprisingly quickly, particularly when bought impulsively.

It also pays to check product sizes. Some miniature gifts offer poor value compared with their full-sized equivalents.

At That's Christmas 365, we think the best stockings are those that show imagination and affection.

They don't need to be expensive or overflowing with presents.

A few carefully chosen surprises can provide just as much enjoyment.

And there's something wonderfully cheerful about discovering that Father Christmas hasn't forgotten the grown-ups!

Christmas Gifts for the Man Who Says He Doesn't Want Anything!

We all know one, don't we? That husband, father, grandfather, brother or friend who, when asked what he'd like for Christmas, responds with the familiar words: "Oh, nothing. I've got everything I need!"

Very helpful. Thank you!

But at That's Christmas 365, we believe that even the most difficult-to-buy-for gentleman deserves something special under the Christmas tree. The trick is finding a present he didn't realise he wanted!

Think Hobbies, Not Just Presents

Does he enjoy gardening, cooking, reading, photography or tinkering with gadgets?

A keen gardener might appreciate some quality tools, unusual seeds or a fascinating gardening book.

For the enthusiastic cook, consider a selection of exotic spices, an interesting kitchen gadget or a cookbook featuring dishes he hasn't tried before.

Technology enthusiasts might enjoy a wireless charging stand, a portable power bank or a clever little accessory that makes everyday life easier.

And for the man who loves a good book? A biography, historical reference work or gripping thriller could be just the ticket.

A Little Luxury Never Hurts

Sometimes the best presents are upgraded versions of everyday essentials.

Think luxurious shaving products, beautifully made socks, a quality leather wallet or a particularly comfortable pair of slippers.

Food and drink gifts can also be winners. Speciality coffee, artisan chocolates, interesting cheeses or a selection of favourite treats can make excellent presents.

Give Him Something to Remember

What about an experience rather than another possession?

A heritage railway journey, brewery tour, theatre visit, afternoon tea or tickets to a sporting event might provide memories long after Christmas has passed.

Better still, choose something you can enjoy together.

Don't Forget the Unexpected!

Sometimes a quirky present is the most successful.

A retro radio, unusual puzzle, nostalgic board game or fascinating piece of memorabilia connected with his childhood could bring a genuine smile.

Personalised gifts can also work beautifully, especially when they reflect his interests rather than simply displaying his name.

It's the Thought That Counts

Of course, if he genuinely doesn't want anything, respect his wishes. Perhaps he'd appreciate a special meal, an outing or simply some quality time with family.

Our advice from That's Christmas 365? Listen to what he talks about throughout the year. That casual comment about a gadget, book or hobby might provide the perfect Christmas inspiration.

After all, the man who says he wants nothing might just be the one who enjoys a thoughtful surprise the most!

Craft for Cats Returns With a Special Festive Stitchalong to Help Cats in Need This Christmas

Paraffle and Cats Protection are inviting crafters and cat lovers to make a personalised Christmas stocking together, with a minimum of £10 from every kit helping cats near you.

Crafters and cat lovers can put their creativity to good use this Christmas as Paraffle and Cats Protection bring back Craft for Cats for a fourth event, with a new festive project and live online stitchalong.

This year's event will see people across the UK create their own cat-themed Christmas stocking, while helping to raise vital funds for Cats Protection.

It continues a partnership that has already made a real difference. As of 19 December 2025, Paraffle had raised more than £84,000 for Cats Protection through its fundraising, helping the charity continue its work supporting cats in need.

Now Paraffle hopes its fourth Craft for Cats event can add to that total, with a minimum of £10 from every craft kit going to help cats near you.

The new £22 embroidery kit contains everything needed to make one traditional Christmas stocking. 

Crafters can choose between red or green and use a selection of cat-themed and festive embroidery patterns to create their own design, with the option to personalise the stocking with a name.

The kits are beginner friendly, with instructions guiding crafters through the project from start to finish, meaning no previous embroidery experience is needed.

But Craft for Cats is about more than making the stocking. On Saturday 5 December 2026, crafters are invited to come together for a special live online stitchalong hosted by Paraffle founder Sammy.

Sammy will be live in the dedicated Craft for Cats Facebook group, stitching alongside everyone taking part, answering questions and giving crafters the chance to share their progress and creations with the wider community.

Sammy, founder of Paraffle, told That's Christmas: "Craft for Cats has become such a lovely event for us because it brings together people who enjoy making things with a cause we really care about. We can't wait to see everyone stitching their stockings together in December and, most importantly, raising more money to help cats in need."

Anyone wanting to take part can join the Facebook community ahead of the event:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/craftforcats

The live sessions will also be recorded and available to watch back on demand, so crafters who can't join on the day can still take part at a time that suits them.

Craft for Cats Christmas Stocking Kits are available now for £22:

https://www.cats.org.uk/embroidery-craft

Kits are available to purchase until 20 December 2026, with a minimum of £10 from every kit sold supporting Cats Protection.

Previous Paraffle Craft for Cats kits are also still available, with 20% from every sale donated to Cats Protection, giving crafters more projects to enjoy while continuing to support the charity:

https://paraffle.com/collections/craft-for-cats

So, get the Christmas music on, make a cuppa and join Sammy and the Craft for Cats community for a festive session of stitching that can make a difference.

Craft for good. Craft for Cats.

Cats Protection is a registered charity 203644 (England and Wales), SC037711 (Scotland) and is listed as a Section 167 institution by the Charity Commission of Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (06772997). 

The 12 Flavours of Christmas: Steenbergs’ Little Ingredients for Big Festive Flavour

Christmas cooking is full of big moments, but sometimes it’s the smallest ingredients that make them memorable. 

A pinch of spice in a biscuit, a splash of vanilla in cream or a smoky twist on a party snack can bring a little extra magic to the table.

North Yorkshire family business Steenbergs specialises in premium, organic and ethically sourced herbs, spices, seasonings and baking ingredients. Here are Sophie and Axel Steenberg’s 12 ideas for adding festive flavour with minimum fuss.

1. Organic Mixed Spice

The scent of Christmas in a jar. Stir a teaspoon into mincemeat, Christmas cake, cookies or apple crumble for a fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cloves.

2. Organic Fairtrade Vanilla Extract

A splash transforms softly whipped cream for mince pies, pudding or pavlova. Steenbergs’ extract is made with vanilla from Madagascar and contains no added sugar.

3. Organic Cinnamon

Sprinkle over French toast, porridge or stewed apples for a cosy Christmas morning. Cinnamon quills also make lovely stirrers for hot chocolate and mulled wine.

4. Organic Star Anise

Add a star to warming mulled wine or a festive cocktail. It looks beautiful, too, floating in a punch with orange slices and cinnamon.

5. Organic Smoked Paprika

Give roasted nuts and sea salt a smoky makeover for drinks-party nibbles. It also adds savoury depth to roast potatoes, vegetables and dips.

6. Organic Nutmeg

Freshly grate a little over bread sauce, cauliflower cheese or a creamy gratin. A delicate dusting also brings warmth to festive coffee and hot chocolate.

7. Organic Cardamom

For a fresh, aromatic twist, add a pinch to buttery shortbread or lemon biscuits. Cardamom pairs especially well with orange, coffee and chocolate.

8. Organic Stollen Spice Mix

This warming family-recipe blend of allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon and clove is made for traditional Stollen. Try it in festive buns, fruit cake or enriched breads, too.

9. Organic Christmas Chai Spices

Cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, clove, cardamom and orange peel make a comforting alcohol-free warmer. Simmer with tea, milk, water and sugar after a winter walk.

10. Mulled Wine Spices

Add a sachet to gently heated red wine and let the aromas fill the kitchen. Cloudy apple juice makes a delicious non-alcoholic alternative.

11. Organic Ginger

Bring a little heat to gingerbread, sticky cake or chocolate brownies. It’s also lovely sprinkled over pears before roasting.

12. Organic Rosemary

Crush with sea salt for roast potatoes, or mix with garlic and olive oil for a simple roast-seasoning rub. It can perk up Boxing Day leftovers, too.

Small jar, big flavour: a few well-chosen ingredients can make festive cooking easier and more delicious.

Explore the range and find Christmas recipes at steenbergs.co.uk.

Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears™ Come Together for Limited-Edition Crystal Art® Advent Calendar

Craft Buddy brings two beloved worlds together in a festive 24-day Christmas collaboration.

Craft Buddy is bringing two of the world's most recognisable character brands together this Christmas with the launch of the limited-edition Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears Crystal Art® Advent Calendar on 22 October 2026.

The innovative reveal, create and cherish design brings well-known characters from Hello Kitty and Friends and Care Bears together in one colourful Crystal Art® collection. Putting friendship at the heart of the Christmas countdown, the calendar pairs personalities from both worlds across a rainbow-themed festive display. 

Behind each of the 24 push-and-reveal doors is a different Crystal Art® magnetic character design waiting to be discovered and decorated with crystals. The format brings together several major collecting trends in one product: limited-edition collaborations, character fandom, crafting and collectible display pieces.

Familiar faces from both brands appear individually and together across the calendar. Each magnetic piece is embellished before being added to the framed display, gradually transforming the Advent countdown into a complete Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears scene.

24 Days. One Limited-Edition Collaboration. The framed magnetic board (35cm x 48cm) provides a backdrop for all 24 completed Crystal Art® magnets, allowing fans to arrange and rearrange the characters throughout December. Rather than disappearing once Christmas Eve arrives, the calendar has been designed to remain as a finished display. Each crystal piece becomes a reusable magnet, ideal for fridge décor and year-round keepsakes. It's a celebration of friendship that lasts beyond Christmas. 

Both Hello Kitty and Friends and Care Bears have found audiences far beyond their original generations. Characters once associated predominantly with children now appear across fashion, accessories, beauty, homeware and collectibles, with nostalgic fans buying alongside a new generation discovering them for the first time.

That crossover makes the calendar as appealing to adult collectors and kidults as it is to younger fans. As a screen-free activity, it also offers families an opportunity to spend quality time together in the run-up to Christmas, while the gentle, repetitive nature of crystal art provides a calming break from the festive rush.

Gary Wadhwani, Co-Founder of Craft Buddy, told That's Christmas: “The Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears Advent Calendar is an exciting collaboration. Both brands have fans across generations, and we wanted to create something special that combines crafting, collecting and the magic of Christmas, with a keepsake that can be enjoyed long after December.”

Charlotte Payne, Vice President Brand Management, Entertainment, Authentic Brands Group, added: “Care Bears has always celebrated the power of sharing, caring, and friendship, and this collaboration with Hello Kitty and Friends brings those values together in a wonderfully creative way. It's a fun way for fans of all ages to connect with the characters they love, make memories together, and share a little extra care throughout the holiday season.”

The Hello Kitty and Friends x Care Bears Crystal Art® Advent Calendar is a limited-edition collaboration, available for £34.99 from Craft Buddy

Also Available: Craft Buddy's Disney and Christmas Friends Advent Calendars

Disney Crystal Art® Advent Calendar, £34.99 from Craft Buddy

Back by popular demand, Craft Buddy's Disney Crystal Art® Advent Calendar brings 24 days of Disney and Pixar magic to the Christmas countdown. Behind each door is a sparkling character to create, featuring favourites including Mickey Mouse, Stitch, Elsa and Buzz Lightyear. Once decorated, the magnetic characters can be added to a framed Christmas tree display, creating a festive keepsake to enjoy long after Christmas.

Christmas Friends Crystal Art® Advent Calendar, £24.99 from Craft Buddy

Count down to Christmas with Craft Buddy's Christmas Friends

Crystal Art® Advent Calendar, featuring 24 sparkling festive decorations to create throughout December. Behind each door is a seasonal favourite, from Santa and snowmen to candy canes, stars and bells, ready to be brought to life with colourful crystals. 

Each decoration is double-sided for extra sparkle and can be hung on the Christmas tree, added to a wreath or displayed around the home. 

A fun, relaxing Christmas activity that creates a collection of keepsake decorations to enjoy year after year.

https://www.craftbuddyshop.com/products/disney-crystal-art-advent-calendar

Why Books Still Make Some of the Best Christmas Presents

In a world dominated by smartphones, streaming services and electronic gadgets, the humble book remains one of the finest Christmas presents imaginable.

And we're delighted about that!

Books offer something rather special. They can entertain, educate, inspire and transport readers to places they might never otherwise visit.

Better still, there's a book for almost every interest.

History enthusiasts can explore biographies, archaeology, military history and fascinating accounts of forgotten events.

Gardeners have an enormous selection of practical guides, illustrated reference works and books celebrating remarkable gardens.

Food lovers can enjoy cookery books covering everything from traditional British dishes to international cuisine.

For readers who enjoy crime fiction, Christmas offers an opportunity to discover a new author or revisit a favourite detective.

Children's books are particularly rewarding gifts. A beautifully illustrated story can become a treasured possession and perhaps inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Reference books deserve consideration, too.

Dictionaries, atlases, encyclopaedias and specialist guides might seem old-fashioned to some people, but there's still enormous pleasure in browsing a physical volume and discovering something unexpected.

If you're uncertain about someone's tastes, ask discreetly about their favourite authors or subjects.

Alternatively, consider a bookshop voucher, allowing the recipient to enjoy choosing their own books.

Second-hand and antiquarian books can also make wonderful gifts, particularly for collectors or people interested in local history.

At That's Christmas 365, we think books offer something increasingly valuable: an opportunity to slow down.

A comfortable chair, a warm drink and a good book can turn an ordinary winter afternoon into something rather special.

And unlike many Christmas presents, a favourite book can be enjoyed again and again.

Light Up Christmas with Paper Starlights

From Diwali celebrations to Christmas festivities, discover beautiful handmade paper stars bringing colour and light to homes across Britain.

Celebrate Christmas with Paper Starlights, the independent British brand marking 30 years of handcrafted paper star lanterns.

From festive reds and sparkling golds to elegant whites and vibrant colours, each star is handmade in India using traditional screen printing, intricate punched patterns and delicate tissue inserts, creating a beautiful glow when illuminated.

Perfect for festive windows, seasonal displays and thoughtful gifts, the stars fold flat for easy storage and can be enjoyed year after year.

Founded in 1996 by Andy Jupp and Jules Cooper, Paper Starlights began after the couple discovered traditional illuminated stars during Diwali celebrations in India. Their partnership with the family who made them continues to this day.

What started with an aluminium trunk of lanterns and a Ford Sierra estate has grown into a much-loved British business, appearing at Christmas markets including Winchester and Blenheim Palace, with spectacular installations at Bath Abbey and London's King's Cross.

Five Festive Favourites from Paper Starlights

Bohemia Teal, £17.95

A striking electric-blue star with flowing patterns and turquoise and golden-yellow inserts, perfect for adding a splash of colour to festive windows.

Venus White, £17.95

An elegant white paper star that complements traditional Christmas decorations and contemporary interiors alike.

Fantasia Scarlet, £17.95

A rich red statement star, ideal for bringing traditional Christmas colour to windows and festive displays.

Sunrise,  £42.50

A striking 60cm, Scandinavian-inspired white lampshade with intricate sunray detailing, perfect for creating a statement in the home.

Gold & Colourful Paisley Mini Stars, Set of 8, £20.00

Eight handmade decorative stars featuring colourful backgrounds and metallic gold paisley patterns, ideal for festive displays, hanging decorations and gifting.

Discover the full collection at www.paperstarlights.com.

Don't Let Flat Batteries Ruin Christmas! Why a Battery Tester Could Be Your Festive Lifesaver

Christmas morning is supposed to be filled with excitement, laughter and the sounds of delighted children discovering what Father Christmas has brought them. 

But there's one little problem that can bring all that excitement to a grinding halt: flat batteries!

Here at That's Christmas 365, we believe that a little forward planning can save an awful lot of frustration during the festive season.

And one of the simplest things you can do is make sure you have enough working batteries for everything that needs them.

It's Not Just the Children's Toys!

When we think about Christmas batteries, we naturally think about toys. Remote-controlled cars, electronic games, talking dolls, musical toys and all manner of other presents can require batteries.

But there's much more to consider.

Think about the kitchen gadgets you might be using to prepare Christmas dinner. Digital scales, electronic thermometers, timers and battery-powered milk frothers can all be essential parts of your festive preparations.

Then there are television remote controls, battery-powered Christmas decorations, LED candles, fairy lights, clocks and countless other household items.

The last thing anyone wants on Christmas Day is to discover that something important has stopped working because its batteries have given up!

Our Own Battery Testing Discovery

My wife and I recently decided to take a more organised approach to our household batteries.

We purchased a Dlyfull battery tester from Amazon, and it has proved to be an absolute godsend.

Rather than guessing whether a battery is still usable, or throwing away batteries that might have plenty of life left in them, we can now check them quickly and easily.

It's surprising how useful such a simple little device can be.

We've found that having a battery tester takes much of the guesswork out of dealing with batteries. Instead of wondering whether a gadget is faulty or simply suffering from weak batteries, we can investigate the most obvious possibility first.

And, of course, avoiding unnecessarily throwing away usable batteries can help save money and reduce waste.

It's worth remembering that a basic battery tester gives an indication of a battery's condition rather than a guarantee of how long it will last in a particular device.

Our Christmas Battery Checklist

Before the festivities begin, we'd recommend:

Checking which batteries new toys and gifts require, particularly whether they're included.

Keeping a sensible supply of AA, AAA, C, D and 9V batteries, according to your household's needs.

Remembering button batteries for suitable devices, and keeping them securely away from children and curious pets.

Testing batteries in existing Christmas decorations before putting them up.

Checking remote controls, kitchen gadgets and other frequently used devices.

Making sure rechargeable batteries are charged and ready for action.

Keeping a suitable screwdriver handy for battery compartments.

One important safety point: never mix old and new batteries, or different battery types, in the same device. Button batteries are particularly dangerous if swallowed and must be stored securely.

A Small Purchase That Could Make a Big Difference

A battery tester might not be the most glamorous Christmas purchase you'll ever make, but our experience with the Dlyfull tester has convinced us that it's an extremely useful addition to the household.

And it's not just for Christmas. It's something that can prove useful throughout the year.

So, while you're stocking up on mince pies, Christmas crackers and festive treats, spare a thought for those little cylinders of electrical energy that keep so many things working.

Because Christmas Day is far too special to spend hunting through drawers for a working pair of AA batteries!

And don't forget to keep the used batteries in a safe place to recycle them.

That's Christmas 365 – helping you enjoy a happier, better organised Christmas, every day of the year.

You can buy your own Dlyfull battery tester via our affiliate-link online Amazon-powered shop here: https://link.amazon/B0isz8ElU

And Tonight We’re Going to Party Like It’s 1929

Christmas has always been a wonderful excuse to dress up, put on some music and make an evening feel special. 

This year, Trevethan Gin invites us to add a little 1920s glamour to the festivities with its Christmas Reserve Gin.

The Trevethan story began in 1929, when Norman Trevethan, a chauffeur at Cornwall’s historic Port Eliot Estate, began making his own gin. 

Nearly a century later, that family recipe still inspires the range. Founder and Master Distiller John Hall brought an engineer’s curiosity to the original formula, refining it through 31 versions over 18 months before creating Trevethan Original 1929 London Dry Gin.

That spirit of thoughtful improvement carries through to Christmas Reserve: a festive gin made for cocktail hour, celebrations and evenings when you fancy a little ceremony. It starts with Trevethan’s London Dry Gin, then adds a warming seasonal mix of botanicals.

Locally grown Norwegian spruce brings an evocative evergreen note, while orange, cinnamon and vanilla add citrus and cosy spice. Cranberries, raspberries and lime lift the richer flavours with a bright, fruity freshness. The result sounds perfectly suited to a winter evening: aromatic, warming and unmistakably Christmassy.

The bottle’s Art Deco inspiration gives it a glamorous presence on a drinks trolley, while its story reaches back to a time of jazz, elegant bars and flourishing cocktail culture. Trevethan’s approach is to honour its heritage while continuing to refine it, and the gin has earned international recognition, including IWSC Gold and Gold Outstanding awards.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy Christmas Reserve. For a simple festive G&T, fill a glass generously with ice, add premium tonic, then pour in the gin last. Finish with a twist of fresh orange peel.

For something warmer in flavour, serve it over ice with ginger ale, orange peel and a cinnamon stick. Or, if you’re hosting a party, mix equal parts Christmas Reserve, sweet vermouth and Campari over ice for a Midnight Negroni, finished with a generous twist of orange.

At 40% ABV, this 70cl bottle is made in Cornwall and has an RRP of £39. It’s available through the Trevethan Distillery online shop, here: https://www.trevethangin.com/shop

So gather your favourite people, choose a glass, and let the festive evening unfold. Here’s to Christmas, a touch of 1929 glamour, and a very merry cocktail hour.

You can also buy Trevethan Gins at our affiliate link Amazon-powered shop https://link.amazon/B07htxyhf