Christmas shopping and markets in Thanet

The festive season is fast approaching and our thoughts are turning to gift ideas. Luckily, Thanet has lots of opportunities to shop local with lots of markets and shopping events in the run up to Christmas.

Artisan makers and craftspeople from Thanet and East Kent will be selling all sorts of items. There's jewellery, homeware, clothing, glassware, ceramics, decorations and much more.

As well as a chance to shop responsibly and pick up unique items, these all make for a great day out too - with many offering food and drink too. Maybe grab a cup of mulled wine to warm you as you wander the stalls.

However you approach it, you're sure to find great gifts for friends and family. Read on for a variety of markets and events. We'll add more as they're announced, so remember to check back again.

Brighter Days Market at Turner Contemporary, Margate

Shop homeware, jewellery, glassware, decorations and more handmade by local independent makers, artists and craftspeople.
November 7-8, 11am to 4pm. Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, CT9 1HG. Free entry.

Good Tidings, Margate

This now annual pop up returns to Margate Old Town for its third edition in the run up to Christmas, selling esoteric gifts and also holding workshops and evening events. 
November 7 to December 24. August, 6a Market Street, Margate, CT9 1TD. Free entry. 

Molly Pickle’s Christmas Cracker Festive Party at Union Cafe, Ramsgate 

An evening of festive shopping and more, there will be live music, festive nibbles, complimentary drinks and Christmas crackers filled with prizes. 
November 13, 6-9pm. Union Cafe, 25-27 Queen street, Ramsgate, CT11 9DZ. Free entry. Book a ticket to ensure you get a cracker.

Silver + Form Contemporary Jewellery and Silverware Fair at Turner Contemporary, Margate

Silver + Form brings together emerging and established names working at the forefront of contemporary design from across the UK. 
November 21-22, 11am to 5pm. Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, CT9 1HG. Free entry.

Festive Market at Ramsgate Tunnels

You’ll find curated goods, local designers and makers at Ramsgate Tunnels’ annual festive market. There will be live music and food as well. 
November 21, 11am to 4pm. Ramsgate Tunnels, Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate, CT11 8FH. Free entry.

Independent Broadstairs’ Festive Night Out

Enjoy some late night shopping at independent shops and cafes around Broadstairs. Grab gifts and food, enjoy a glass of mulled wine or two, and support local businesses. 
November 28, 6-8pm. Various venues in Broadstairs. Free entry. Check Instagram for participating businesses.

Christmas Market at Pierremont Hall, Broadstairs

Browse Christmas gifts and other items from a range of local businesses. There will also be live music, and lots of food and drink. 
November 28, 11am to 5pm. Pierremont Park, Broadstairs, CT10 1JX. Free entry.

Margate Ceramics Market at Turner Contemporary, Margate

Browse and buy ceramics from over 40 local makers, including Lux Pottery, Sarah Daly, Badger and the Fox, Jaw Ceramics and World Play Clay. 
December 5-6, 11am to 4pm. Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, CT9 1HG. Free entry.

Eco Market at Arts in Ramsgate

Shop a wide variety of environmentally conscious gifts from local makers, including soaps, candles, jewellery, clothing, homeware and food. 
December 12, 11-3pm. Arts in Ramsgate, 46 High Street, Ramsgate, CT11 9AG. Free entry. 

Margate Jewellers' Collective at Turner Contemporary, Margate

This event showcases independent artisan jewellery makers based in Margate, including Smith & Sun, Billie Grand, Jayne Fowler and Rebecca Gladstone.
December 12, 11am to 4pm. Turner Contemporary, Rendezvous, Margate, CT9 1HG. Free entry.

Christmas Bazaar at TKE Studios, Margate

Head down to TKE Studios for one-off Christmas gifts, food and drink, entertainment and perhaps a whole book of raffle tickets and the hope you’ll win a Tracey Emin artwork. 
December 12, 2-6pm. TKE Studios, 99 Victoria Road, Margate, CT9 1RD. Free entry.