Christmas Markets & Events in Essex

Christmas Events in Essex

In the mood to do something festive? You’re in luck- Essex is a fantastic place to be at this time of year.

There are so many exciting Christmas events in Essex that there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

From craft fairs, workshops, and markets, to pantomimes, grottos, and food and drink fairs, there are so many Essex Christmas events to choose from that you’ll be feeling festive in no time.

Best Places to Eat & Drink in Essex Things to do in Essex New Year's Events in Essex

Magic of Christmas at Colchester Zoo

Colchester Zoo, Maldon Rd, Heckfordbridge, Colchester, CO3 0SL

The Santa Experience

Step into the magical wonderland of the North Pole as you journey through the white woodland.

Throughout November & December 2025

£16.50

Enchanted Trail of Light

Experience a whole host of illuminations along a designated route, featuring an immersive blue ice tunnel, magical rainbow light bridge and life-sized animal illuminations. Plus, you can control the magic with special interactive light zones, all put together by our creative in-house events team.

Throughout November & December 2025

From £15

Magic of Christmas

Immerse yourself in the wonderful Christmas atmosphere with our festive activities on 22nd, 23rd, 29th & 30th November, 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th & 19th – 24th December 2025

Find out more about each of our Magic of Christmas activities below.

Elves’ Workshop – Feel festive and create magical crafts with our elves at their workshop. • Small cost applies. Crafts vary daily.

Wilbur the Woolly Mammoth – Visit the main man himself and receive a special gift, Wilbur the Wolly Mammoth, worth £19.99.

Mrs Claus Kitchen – Take a break at Mrs Claus Kitchen where you can enjoy a tasty treat.

Enchanted Woodland – Journey through the magical woodland and discover our many fairies and pixies and their homes.

Passholder Shopping Evening! – Join us for our late night Christmas Passholder Shopping event on Thursday 4th December 2025! Open from 4:30pm to 6:30pm, Zoo Passholders can treat ‘yo’elf’ to a range of products and receive a fa-la-la-labulous 25% OFF!

Festive Road Train – During the trail you’ll also enjoy dancing fountains and a ride on the festive road train to take the weight off your feet as you are transported to more enchanting sights!

Live Entertainment – After you’ve been truly dazzled, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a live musical performance!

More information

Christmas Market | Colchester Town Hall

Colchester Town Hall, High St, Colchester, CO1 1PJ

Come join us at The Colchester Town Hall Christmas Market.

Stalls will include cards, festive refreshments, jewellery, beauty, ornaments, personalised gifts and MORE.

Date: Sunday 7th December 2025

More Info Here

Colchester Christmas Evening Market

Mercury Theatre, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1PT

Our Christmas Evening Market is looking very special! On the evening of December 13th we’ll be filling The Piazza outside The Mercury Theatre with a wonderful mix of crafts, food, drinks and Street Food stalls.

We’ll have wood fired pizza from The Little Pizza Oven, freshly cooked Indian Street Food from Tikka Tonic, creamy Mac n Cheese, fresh Sushi and delicious Churros.

Date: Saturday 13th December 2025 – 4pm-8pm.

More Info Here

Father Christmas Experience

Layer Marney Tower, Layer Marney, Colchester, Essex, C05 9US

This December, Layer Marney Tower will be transformed into a winter wonderland for our enchanting Father Christmas Experience, all in support of Helen Rollason Cancer Charity. It’s the perfect way to start the Christmas holidays with joy, laughter and a touch of festive magic.

Dates: 19th December 2025 |10:00 am – 5:00 pm

More Info Here