Sydney’s Christmas markets are great fun. From the fairy-lit Le Jolly French Market to the popular Martin Place Christmas Market in the city centre, you’ll find stalls packed with Christmas gifts, decorations, visits from Santa and the scent of festive treats filling the air. But if you’re looking for a change of scenery, there are plenty of countryside markets delivering festive vibes in spades, an excellent shopping experience and plenty of delicious food minus the hectic city crowds. Here are some Christmas markets to explore within a short two-hour drive from Sydney.
1. Avoca Beachside Markets December Twilight Edition
A waterfront market under the stars is what’s on offer at Avoca Beach, just 1 hour and 20 minutes from Sydney. At the free Avoca Twilight Market, you’ll find over 90 unique stalls to shop from selling seasonal gifts, desserts, festive treats and much more. There will be entertainment at the venue in the form of live music and Christmas carols along with pop-up bars and food trucks. The markets are also dog-friendly and include water rides so you can take the whole crew along. It’s all happening on Saturday, December 9 from 4pm to 9pm at Avoca Lagoon. Head here for more details and follow their Facebook page for regular updates.
2. The Illawarra “All I Want For Christmas” Market
The Illawarra “All I Want For Christmas” Market is just as cute as its name and an excellent day trip out of Sydney. Get all your shopping done under one roof with boutique stalls, tasty treats, live music and photo opportunities with Santa on offer. The markets will be set up on December 16 and 17 from 3pm and will take you around 1 hour, 45 minutes from Sydney. Get the details here.
3. Christmas Night Markets Bowral
A monthlong Festival of Lights celebration is coming to Bowral this holiday season with parties, carols, concerts and more on the agenda along with dozens of light displays. On Thursday, December 7 from 5pm to 10pm, the festival will also host a Christmas Night Market with local artisans and vendors selling gifts, seasonal treats and more. Entry to the event is free. Find out more about the open-air markets here and follow their Facebook page for updates.
4. Moss Vale Showground Christmas Market
Another place in the Southern Highlands that is getting in on the Christmas fun is the charming country town of Moss Vale. Just over a 1.5-hour drive from Sydney, a number of local artisans will display their wares from handmade craft, jams, relishes, soaps, candles and more. Freshly baked bread, flowers and tasty holiday treats will also be on offer at the Moss Vale Showground on December 17, 9am to 2pm. Head here for more information.
5. The Pavilion Kiama Christmas Markets
Another beachside market to keep on your radar is taking place around a 90-minute drive from Sydney in the picturesque coastal town of Kiama. Shop for chocolates, clothes, gifts jewellery and more all day. You can also look forward to delicious food, face painting and a visit from Santa. It’s all happening at The Pavilion Kiama on Thursday, November 16 from 1pm to 7pm. Find more information here.
6. Christmas Wollemi Artisan Markets
A special twilight edition of Wollemi Christmas Artisan Market is coming to Katoomba on Saturday, December 9 from 5pm to 8pm, around a 90-minute drive from Sydney. A number of talented artists from the Blue Mountains area will set up shop selling jewellery, homewares, accessories, art and more. Head here for further details.