Tis' the season of Christmas Markets in and around Oakham, with a jam-packed schedule of festive markets and shopping events. 

Varying from a curated artisan market to a fun-packed charity fundraiser, there are markets big and small happening across Rutland on the run up to Christmas.

The BIG Rutland Christmas Market 

Kicking off the festive season in Rutland, the Rutland BIG Christmas market is promising a jam-packed weekend of artisan goods, festive foods, local performances and the opportunity to meet Father Christmas. 

Taking place from Friday 15th November to Sunday 17th, this market invites visitors to explore their selection of handmade gifts and crafts to celebrate Rutland's small businesses. 

Organisers said: "This year the Rutland Big Christmas Market is back and bigger than before at a bigger new location." 

This year, the market will take place in The Barnsdale in Oakham, hosting over 90 stalls from local charities and businesses. This is the perfect chance to kick off your Christmas shopping the Rutland way! 

The BIG Christmas Market includes the chance for little ones to meet Father Christmas, with funds going to charities supported by Rutland Lions.

Laxton Artisan Fair 

Running between 10am and 4pm on Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November, Laxton Village Hall will be home to a curated collection of handmade items from local artists and sellers. 

Offering a wide range of gifts and goodies, Laxton Artisan Fair will have stalls selling jewellery, ceramics, prints, paintings, home goods, perfumes, candles and skin care. 

This market is ideal for some early Christmas shopping or getting some inspiration from their beautifully curated selection of goods. There will also be tea and cake available. 

Wymondham Village Hall's Christmas Fair 

Taking place between 10am and 2pm on Saturday 16th November, Wymondham Village Hall is opening its doors to get the festive period started with a bang. 

The Christmas fair will include stalls, making this the perfect opportunity to shop for gifts or get a little treat for yourself. There will be plenty of goods available, including cards, ceramics, confectionary, handmade decorations, wreaths, handicrafts, homeware, jewellery and delicious food. 

There will also be competitions, raffles and tombola with fantastic prizes to raise money for local charities and community groups. 

If that wasn't all festive enough, there will also be mulled wine available with a free mince pie. 

Wing Christmas Fayre 

Wing Village Hall will be home to the Christmas fayre on Saturday 16th November between 10am and 5pm. This fayre will be a fabulous showcase of locally made Christmas gifting items. 

Wing Village Hall's community Christmas Fayre will take place on 16th November. (Photo: Google Maps)

Uppingham Craft Fayre and Market 

This year's Uppingham Craft Fayre and Market will take place on 17th November 2024 between 10:30am and 4pm. 

Uppingham Village Hall will be filled with festive goodies, from handmade crafts and gifts to hot drinks and mince pies to get you in the Christmas spirit. 

Uppingham will also have a Late Night Shopping event later in the month. (Photo: LDRS)

Preston Village Christmas Market

Get into the festive mood with a fantastic range of stalls at Preston Village Christmas Market at their newly refurbished village hall. 

On 30th November between 11am and 5pm, Preston Village Hall will be filled with stalls selling art, pottery, Christmas wreaths and gifts galore, including Preston's very own wine on sale. 

There will also be a licensed bar with prosecco, mulled wine, tea, coffee, mince pies and cake. Everyone is welcome to this joyful community event. 

 Uppingham Late Night Shopping 

On Thursday 5th December, Late Night Shopping will return to Uppingham with a fantastic evening filled with entertainment, food stalls, crafts and festive fun for the whole family. 

Running between 5.30pm to 9pm, stalls and shops will be open late to get some gifts, local food and fabulous entertainment. 

Last year's Late Night Shopping in Uppingham was a massive success for the village. (Photo: Uppingham Late Night Shopping)

Oakham Late Night Shopping 

This year, Oakham Late Night Shopping will take place on Monday 9th December in Oakham Town Centre. 

Festive food and drinks will be on offer, with local stores staying open late. There will be games for kids and dogs are welcome. 

Christmas Fair for the Cinnamon Trust 

Manton Village Hall will host their Christmas Fair in aid of The Cinnamon Trust. 

Organisers describe The Cinnamon Trust as "a wonderful charity which provides peace of mind and help for older people with love and practical care for their pets." 

Taking place between 10am to 3pm on Thursday 12th December, the event will include 20 unique stands from across the country selling a variety of goods. 

Unusual presents, decorations, personalised gifts, handmade candles and much more will be on sale. There will also be homemade soup and goodies from Hambleton Bakery. 

Entrance costs £5 in cash, which will go to The Cinnamon Trust. 

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