Words by Amanda Kennedy Images Supplied
Victoria in December might not be a winter wonderland but we still enjoy Christmas markets, twinkling lights and tasty treats included. Markets offer that perfect blend of gifts for young and old, delicious food (& drink) options to keep you going plus entertainment for the kids.
Whether it’s an annual ritual or you’re starting a new tradition, we’ve rounded up six of the best Christmas markets in regional Victoria. And with a little planning, you can get the gifts sorted, stock up on some local produce for the big day and have a road trip – all rolled into one.
Wine X Sam Sip, Sit & Shop
Seymour #oneandahalfhoursout
Catch up with friends and do a spot of shopping at a winery? Don’t mind if we do! Enjoy a cheese & charcuterie board with a glass of something delicious while staff create hampers bursting with local produce and their award-winning wines. Now things are starting to look festive.
Wine X Sam Sip, Sit & Shop Seymour – Friday evenings 10th & 17th December.
Piccadilly Christmas Market
Geelong #onehourout
Saturday afternoons should be made of sugar and spice and all things nice ‘n’ Christmassy. Over 100 stalls will be offering their wares at the Barwon Valley Activity Centre in Geelong. Parking is free (woohoo), there’ll be face painting and a fun farm for the kids as well as live entertainment and food stalls for the adults. If you don’t achieve most of your Christmas gift shopping here, you’re just not trying.
Piccadilly Christmas Market, Geelong – Saturday 11th December 10am – 3pm.
Ballarat Christmas Market
Ballarat #oneandahalfhoursout
If you were to design the quintessential Christmas market, then Ballarat Christmas Market would be it. From eco-homewares to Christmas gifts, jewellery to pet portraits, local produce to food and beverage stalls, this market is set to be a bonanza. Located on Zoo Drive by Lake Wendouree, this twilight market will showcase over 100 stalls so there really is something for everyone.
Christmas Market, Ballarat – Friday 17th December 4 – 8pm.
Gigs in the Bridge
Hurstbridge #onehourout
Each Saturday from mid-December through the New Year, celebrate the festive season with live music from local Nillumbik musicians. Hurstbridge is uniquely blessed to have a true country feel even while being located right at the edge of the city. Explore its pretty streets and over 60 stores to a yuletide soundtrack.
Gigs in the Bridge, Hurstbridge – Saturday 11th & 18th December – 10am – 6pm.
Glenlyon Xmas Event
Glenlyon #oneandahalfhoursout
Glenlyon is one of those charming little villages in spa country which is growing in popularity. What better way to get a feel for the area, than to check out the Christmas event at the local shire hall and celebrate with the locals. There’ll be lots of kids’ activities, food and gift stalls as well as plenty of live music to keep you going all afternoon. Rumour has it, the guy in the big red suit is even planning to visit!
Glenlyon Xmas Event, Glenlyon – Saturday 18th December 4 – 8pm.
Castlemaine Twilight Market
Castlemaine #oneandahalfhoursout
Find a unique gift for that hard-to-buy-for relative whilst sipping on a local brew and some sweet tunes play in the background? Yes please! The 13th annual Twilight Market has it all. Over 120 makers from across the Goldfields region will be on hand at Western Reserve, right in the heart of Castlemaine. Mark this one in your diary!
Castlemaine Twilight Market, Castlemaine – Friday 20th December 4 – 8pm.
QR codes, vaccination conditions may apply. See listings for details.
We wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of this land and to pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.
