As the festive season approaches, Dorset comes alive with a variety of Christmas fairs that capture the magic of the holidays and encourage people to shop small. For those looking to support local businesses, find unique gifts, and immerse themselves in a festive atmosphere, there are three must-attend events: The Dorset Team Winter Fair, The Dorset Team Christmas Fair, and A Dorset Christmas Fair. These events are ideal for families, friends, and anyone eager to get into the Christmas spirit.
Dorset Team Winter Fair
Date: Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd November 2024
Location: Allendale Centre in Wimborne, Dorset
Details: This winter fair kicks off the season with a celebration of local Dorset artists, artisans, makers and creatives. It is the perfect opportunity to shop for early Christmas presents or just enjoy a day out. The fair features a wide array of handmade gifts with everything from a hand forged poker to Christmas cards by local artists! It is the ideal place to come for those who appreciate quality, creativity and are looking for some unique gifts which you won't find on the highstreet.
Why Visit: Start your Christmas shopping early and enjoy a more relaxed way to shop. Discover amazing local makers and a festive atmosphere. There is an on-site cafe serving food and drink all day and dogs are welcome in all of the venue.
Seller Highlights include:
- Jacqui Fairweather - Selling beautiful handmade ceramics from mugs to trivets
- Strings and Things - Macrame homewares and accessories in unique and beautiful colours. Everything from your more traditional macrame plant hangers to Christmas ornaments.
- PeggyRae - Run by Angie selling soy wax candles and melts with a mixture of new and vintage vessels these make fantastic gifts for the home.
Date: Saturday 16th and Sunday 17th November
Location: Tank Museum, Bovington, Dorset
Details: Set in the unique surroundings of the Tank Museum, A Dorset Christmas Fair promises two days of festive fun. With 100 stalls offering a wide variety of locally made products, visitors can enjoy live entertainment and festive treats. For a truly unique experience, Santa will arrive on an armoured vehicle and will be doing laps of the tank arena! Tickets are available through the Tank Museum. Free entry to the event if you have a year pass.
Why Visit: A fantastic festive event in a really unique setting, with live entertainment, Santa’s special appearance, and plenty of local stalls offering something for everyone. It’s the ideal way to start your Christmas shopping while enjoying a unique day out. You can explore the whole of the Tank Museum and its amazing collection as well as enjoy the festive atmosphere. A perfect day out for all the family!
Why These Fairs Should Be in Your 2024 Diary
These Christmas fairs offer more than just shopping; they are a chance to support local makers and creatives. Shop small, local and buy something meaningful this Christmas. From handmade ceramics to artisan hampers, you’ll find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
Dorset Team
The Dorset Team a group of local makers, artisans and creatives based in Dorset. The group is run by Rachel from The Dorothy Days who is a knitwear designer and maker. We organise craft fairs and markets as well as having an active online community where makers can come for advice and peer support.
Through the Dorset Team fairs we hope to introduce the public to a wide range of talented local makers and encourage them to shop small and local and support the local maker community.
Find more about us https://www.instagram.com/dorsetteam/ and https://www.facebook.com/dorsetteam
