Discover the Magic of Christmas in the Lincolnshire Wolds

The festive season is upon us, and there’s no better place to soak up the Christmas spirit than in the enchanting Lincolnshire Wolds. From twinkling markets to heart-warming community events, the Wolds and surrounding areas offer an abundance of festive delights. Here’s your guide to making the most of this magical time of year while supporting local businesses.

Festive Markets to Visit

Christmas markets are the heart of the holiday season, offering the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts, indulge in festive treats, and enjoy the charm of our local towns and villages. Here’s a roundup of must-visit markets this season:

Skegness Christmas Market – 30th November - Kick off your Christmas celebrations with Skegness’ magical market. Expect festive stalls and plenty of cheer to light up the seaside town.
Alford Christmas Extravaganza – 30th November - Head to Alford for a day packed with seasonal surprises. The Extravaganza promises an array of local crafts, delicious food, and festive fun for all ages.
Market Rasen Lions Christmas Fayre – 30th November - This beloved fayre is the perfect spot to pick up handcrafted gifts while soaking in the festive atmosphere of Market Rasen.
Caistor Christmas Lights Switch On – 1st December - Watch Caistor come alive with dazzling lights and festive spirit during this annual celebration.
Wragby Christmas Market – 7th December - Discover unique gifts and seasonal goodies at Wragby’s charming Christmas market.
Spilsby Christmas Market – 7th December - Spilsby’s Christmas market is a community favourite, filled with local vendors and festive cheer.
Mablethorpe Christmas Market – 7th December - Combine seaside nostalgia with Christmas magic at this unmissable market.
Bardney Christmas Market – 7th December - Shop for handmade treasures and festive essentials in the heart of Bardney.
Horncastle Christmas Market – 8th December - Horncastle’s market offers a wonderful mix of stalls, entertainment, and holiday spirit.
Holton Le Moor Christmas Fair – 8th December - A quintessentially festive fair with a welcoming community vibe, perfect for a family day out.
Horncastle Farmers Market – 12th December - Stock up on fresh, local produce to make your Christmas table truly special.
Louth Winter Sunday Market – 15th December - Wander through Louth’s winter market and discover delightful gifts, delicious food, and festive surprises.
Louth Farmers' Market – 18th December - Get the freshest ingredients for your Christmas feast and support local farmers while you’re at it.

Support Local This Christmas

The Lincolnshire Wolds is a hub of creativity, tradition, and community spirit, making it the perfect place to shop locally this Christmas. From charming independent shops to bustling markets, there are countless ways to support small businesses and ensure your festive celebrations are as unique as they are meaningful.

Why Shopping Local Matters

Strengthening the Community: Every pound you spend locally stays within the community, helping to create jobs, support families, and ensure that our market towns and villages continue to thrive.
Unique and Quality Products: The artisans and producers of the Lincolnshire Wolds take pride in their craft. By shopping local, you’re investing in one-of-a-kind, high-quality products that stand out from mass-produced goods.

Small Business Saturday - December 7th

Small Business Saturday is the perfect opportunity to champion the talented creators in our region. Many local businesses offer special promotions, festive events, and exclusive products to celebrate the day. Why not spend the day exploring the markets, browsing local boutiques, or discovering hidden gems tucked away in our picturesque towns?

What Can You Find Locally?

Unique Christmas Gifts- Forget the mass-produced options this year. The Wolds’ local businesses offer an abundance of handcrafted and bespoke items, from intricate jewellery and artisan candles to custom artwork and ceramics. A gift from the Wolds tells a story and shows your loved ones you’ve gone the extra mile. Many local businesses also offer vouchers which can make excellent Christmas presents!
Delicious Food and Drink- Make your Christmas feast a truly local affair by sourcing ingredients and treats from nearby farmers’ markets and producers. Whether it’s a succulent turkey, fresh vegetables, handmade mince pies, or a bottle of locally brewed ale, the Wolds’ food scene is second to none. Don’t miss Horncastle Farmers Market (12th December) and Louth Farmers Market (18th December) for the freshest seasonal offerings.
Festive Decorations- Deck your halls with locally made decorations that bring a rustic charm to your home. From handcrafted wreaths and table centerpieces to knitted stockings and tree ornaments, the markets and craft fairs in the Wolds are brimming with inspiration.

Ways to Support Local Without Spending Much

Even if you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of ways to show your support:

Spread the Word: Share your favourite local businesses on social media or recommend them to friends and family.
Leave Positive Reviews: A glowing review can make a big difference to a small business, especially during the competitive Christmas season.
Volunteer at Community Events: Many Christmas markets and fairs rely on volunteers to bring them to life. Lending a hand can be a rewarding way to give back.

More Christmassy Things to Do in the Lincolnshire Wolds

Take a Festive Walk: The Wolds’ rolling hills and picturesque landscapes are even more magical in winter. Bundle up and enjoy a brisk walk through Hubbard’s Hills in Louth or Willingham Woods in Market Rasen, followed by a warming hot chocolate at a local café. Take a walk through Horncastle and discover its rich history through the recently updated interpretation boards (pick up an updated leaflet from the library or Joseph Banks Centre). Furthermore, stroll around Horncastle and admire Window Wanderland, where windows across the town are beautifully decorated with festive displays. It's a delightful way to spark some Christmas cheer while supporting the local community.
Visit Local Attractions: Many attractions in the Wolds embrace the festive spirit. Check out Christmas events at local village halls for concerts and pantomimes. Horncastle Town Council have produced a list of Christmas events here.
Enjoy Seasonal Food & Drink: Cozy pubs and tea rooms across the Wolds serve up hearty meals and festive treats during December. Treat yourself to mince pies, mulled wine, or a traditional roast at one of Lincolnshire Wolds' many welcoming eateries.