Named one of the “Loveliest Boutique Christmas Markets in the UK” by The Sunday Times last year, the market continues to enchant visitors with its unique coastal charm and festive atmosphere.
Steeped in rich heritage, the Harbour has undergone significant regeneration and investment, transforming it into a bustling hub for food, drink, and entertainment.
Now in its fifth year, visitors can explore beautifully decorated fisherman huts brimming with locally handmade crafts, delicious food, and one-of-a-kind gift ideas. From artisanal treasures to seasonal goodies, you'll find something special for everyone, set within a wintery wonderland of snow blizzards and festive lights with a Christmas tree as its centrepiece.
The huts themselves will once again showcase a revolving mix of independent traders and artisans, some of the highlights include:
Wayfarer Wines – A family run winery in Woodchurch, making award-winning still English whites and rose wines perfect for festive entertaining and gifting. Their festive wine hamper includes a scented Wayfarer candle, Wayfarer honey and chutney.
Produced in Kent – A revolving hut showcasing a different local Produced in Kent member each weekend, celebrating the best of Kent's producers with a smorgasbord of festive gifting inspiration.
Alakazam Magic – A family business with over 35 years of expertise, supplying world-class magic tricks for amateurs and professionals alike. The perfect festive fun gift!
Dicky Smiles – The quirky world of Folkestone artist Arron Miles, offering original artwork, organic T-shirts, and customisable designs for kids and adults.
Dog Deli – Natural, high-quality dog treats made with love, giving pups and their owners a healthier, tastier alternative to mass-produced snacks. Because even pooches need spoiling with a stocking full of goodies!
Gilda – Gilda, whose mince pies won a Great Taste Award in 2024, is an artisanal bakery housed in a beautiful, converted farm building and nestled in the heart of rural Kent. The team of passionate bakers celebrate the craft to create award winning breads and pastries.
Family favourites return too, with Santa's Grotto opening in December to welcome children eager to meet Father Christmas. And for those looking for something a little different, the Harbour's beachside adventure golf course will once again enjoy a festive glow-up, with illuminated holes and light-up golf balls transforming the evening atmosphere into a playful winter spectacle.
Entertainment is at the heart of the Festive Marketplace experience. Visitors can cosy up in front of the Big Screen every Saturday and Sunday from midday, with a programme of festive classics including Home Alone, Elf, The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation and The Holiday.
Live music will bring extra sparkle every weekend from 3pm, featuring performances from local favourites such as Bamboozle, Hulabaloo, Heroes Miss Holiday and the Swing Tones, the Big Flava Band and Thomas Abrahams.
On Friday 20 December, the much-loved Christmas Tractors event returns for a second year, with around 40 festive tractors and farm vehicles making their way to the Harbour in collaboration with local farmers.
Where: Folkestone Harbour
What to Expect: Handmade items, food and drink, crafts, original gifts, live music, family films, and community events
Admission: Free