Hailsham Prepares for Annual Christmas Market Celebration

Hailsham Town Council is pleased to announce that the Hailsham Christmas Market will take place in Vicarage Field on Saturday 13 December, from 9am to 2.30pm. This annual festive event offers a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the town’s community spirit, celebrate local craftsmanship and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season.

Visitors can look forward to an array of market stalls offering handcrafted gifts, local produce and festive treats – ideal for those last-minute Christmas presents while supporting local traders and independent businesses. Some stallholders will feature sustainably sourced and eco-friendly products, allowing visitors to shop consciously this festive season.

Confirmed traders at this year’s market include Misty Acres (flowers), One of a Kind (children’s clothing and gifts), Love 1918 (wax melts), Ace Knits & Bits (haberdashery), Jo Ro Bakes & Daisy Designs (baked goods and gifts), Mouse House Cheese (waxed cheeses), Sister’s Sweets n Sips (confectionery), Mini Mouthfuls (homemade fudge), M & D Crafts (gifts), Casa Mex (Mexican clothes and gifts), Bumbling Bee Man (honey), Simply Sussex Produce (hampers and gifts), J’s Bakes & Cakes (baked goods) and Scrumdiddlyumptious (sweets).

There will also be stalls selling crochet items, homemade fudge, waffles and books, as well as a tombola. For those in search of festive refreshments, local cafés and food stalls will be serving mulled drinks, hot chocolate, mince pies and savoury seasonal treats, providing the perfect opportunity to warm up and enjoy the Christmas spirit.

Cllr Anne Marie Ricketts, Chair of the Town Council’s Communities Committee, said: “Our Christmas events are among the highlights of the year in Hailsham – a time when families, shoppers and visitors come together to celebrate the season. The Christmas Market is not only a wonderful festive occasion, but also a true reflection of the strong community spirit that defines our town.”

“The event supports local businesses and community groups, helps boost the local economy, and creates cherished memories for families. The enthusiasm and warmth of everyone involved really bring Hailsham to life at Christmas.”

The Christmas Market forms part of the Town Council’s ongoing efforts to promote and support local enterprise and small businesses, providing valuable opportunities for independent traders, craftspeople, charities and community groups to reach new audiences and showcase their products and services.

Adding to the seasonal atmosphere, the event will feature live entertainment and music performances throughout the day. Highlights include performances from The Sussex Stompers, whose upbeat jazz sounds will bring festive energy to the town centre, and The Jackettes, performing vintage-style Christmas favourites to delight visitors.

For children, Santa Claus will make a special appearance during the day with his sleigh, and Hailsham FM will also be broadcasting live from the event, entertaining shoppers with a selection of popular Christmas tunes and interviews with stallholders.

In addition to the main market, Hailsham Farmers’ Market will be operating at the Cattle Market site in Market Street from 9am to 12.30pm, featuring a wide range of locally produced goods. Hailsham FM will also be present throughout the morning, adding to the lively atmosphere.

To conclude the day’s festivities, Wealden Brass will perform a special Christmas concert at Hailsham Parish Church, beginning at 2.30pm. The performance will include a mix of traditional and modern Christmas music.

Cllr Ricketts added: “With live music, festive treats and a special visit from Santa, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. We look forward to welcoming residents and visitors alike and making this year’s Christmas celebrations in Hailsham the most magical yet.”

Entry to all events is free, and everyone is warmly invited to attend.