Unique Christmas market coming to Colchester

Suffolk Market Events, which is behind the monthly Colchester Farmers Market, is bringing a mix of artisan producers to The Piazza outside The Mercury Theatre.

This weekend the group will be hosting its Colchester Festive Saturday Evening Market offering a selection of crafts and gifts stalls.

These include block print textiles from Charlotte, jewellery from Barley Craft and Zoe Lane, and hand cream and soaps from Thistle & Rose and Evergreen Soaps.

Fresh street food will available on the day including Indian street food from Tikka Tonic, chicken burgers and strips from Peck, and Neapolitan style pizzas from The Little Pizza Oven. 

There will also be a choice of pies and cheese from Hoskyn’s deli, as well as jams and chutneys from Country Cottage Preserves, honey from Lovelands, chunky chocolate bars from Tempr’d, fresh coffee beans from The Medleys.

Bakes and cakes from Crumbs Alive, in addition to brownies from the Essex Bakery and fudge from Woodlands Bakeaway, will also be on offer.

Local ales from Roughacre Brewery and wine from Bromley Brook Vineyard, as well as a range of spirits from English Distillery and Meadow Oak Gin, will be on hand for shoppers in need of a tipple.

The hope is the market attracts the interest of both residents and visitors from further afield.

Justine Paul, owner of Suffolk Market Events, said: “It’s so important to shout about Colchester as a fun and vibrant city.

"This market will create a great atmosphere on the Piazza – hopefully as part of the growing popularity of our monthly farmers market and the wonderful Panto season at the Mercury Theatre.

Stalls - Market outside Mercury Theatre (Image: Submitted)

“I’m sure everyone will enjoy the mix of stalls and there is some really tasty food to enjoy on the day.”

The Colchester Festive Saturday Evening Market is on Saturday from 4pm until 8pm, with free entry.