12 Christmas markets Brisbane locals should visit to get in the holiday spirit in 2020

1. South Bank Christmas Village (cancelled for 2020)

The South Bank Christmas Village is the official seasonal market of the city and is a not-to-be-missed event.

Located on the cobblestoned streets of Stanley Street Plaza, it’s a massive nine-day bender filled with handicraft stalls and Christmas cheer.

Due to COVID-19, the market isn't going ahead this year. Though that's not to say you can't get into the festive spirit with The Lord Mayor's Lighting of the Christmas Tree (on display until 31 December), the Gold Lotto City Hall Lights (4-24 December), the Lord Mayor's Christmas Carols (5 December) and performers and entertainers along Queen Street Mall (4-24 December) flooding the city streets.

• When: Cancelled for 2020
• Where: South Bank Parklands, South Bank
• More information: South Bank Christmas Markets

2. BrisStyle Brisbane Twilight Market

Set to the backdrop of the historic King George Square, BrisStyle is an arresting sight. With the Town Hall lit up, the stalls dressed in lights and jazz music playing in the background, you’ll feel worlds away the moment you step inside.

Plus all the goods are 100% handmade with over 80 local designers on show.

• When: 28 November 2020, 4pm-9pm
• Where: King George Square, Brisbane
• Cost: Free
• More information: BrisStyle Brisbane Twilight Market

3. QAGOMA Store Christmas Design Market

If there’s one place that knows high quality art, it’s the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA). So when it comes to seeking high-quality artistic wares, its annual Christmas Design Market is your go-to.

Boasting over 40 stalls selling ceramics, textiles and paper products, these aren’t gifts, they’re statement pieces.

If you missed out you can still shop for artistic presents at the QAGOMA physical or online store.

• When: 5 December 2020, 9am-4pm
• Where: QAGOMA
• More information: Christmas Design Market QAGOMA

4. Gasworks Christmas Markets

This monthly market takes on a red and green twist in December with all manner of unique items ready to be wrapped and placed under the Christmas tree. Whether it's a fashion accessory, piece of art, homewares, plants or kids toys, there's a smattering of options at Gasworks for you to pick up across its 50+ stalls.

• When: 11 December 2020, 5-9pm
• Where: Gasworks Plaza
• More information: Gasworks Christmas Markets

5. Coorparoo Christmas Markets

Live local? Shop local! The monthly Coorparoo Markets are timed exceptionally this year for the weekend right before Christmas Day.

Its Christmas edition has all your favourite small businesses (over 40 in total) as well as a few festive activities for young and old. Think bauble decorating workshops, a selfie wall and Christmas carolling.

• When: 20 December 2020, 9.30am-12.30pm
• Where: Coorparoo Square, park at 26 Holdsworth Street
• More information: The Market Folk

6. Brisbane Fair Trade Christmas Market (cancelled for 2020)

Clear your conscience and win a spot in Santa’s good books by shopping ethically this Christmas.

This fair trade market has a carefully curated list of ethically-sound stallholders on its bill. In 2019 this included Oxfam, Wanderlust People, The Woven Trail and Siham Craftlink.

This year's event has been cancelled for 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions.

• When: Cancelled for 2020
• Where: Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, Kessels Road, Nathan
• More information: Queensland Fair Trade

7. Cleveland Twilight Makers Market

This local favourite comes around once a month bringing with it over 60 stalls trading fashion, homewares and gourmet food.

Entertainment abounds for the kids and as the light fades we suggest you take a moment on Raby Bay boardwalk to gaze into the distance and drink up your picturesque surrounds.

• When: 19 December 2020
• Where: Raby Bay Park, Cleveland
• More information: Twilight Makers Market

8. Etsy Made Local Brisbane

Every year, online marketplace Etsy Australia connects local makers with the community face-to-face. But this year it will be online due to restrictions.

Expect lots of exciting deals from sellers which you can shop from the comfort of your home.

• When: 27-28 November 2020
• Where: Online
• More information: Etsy Made Local Australia

9. Christmas Markets at Cleveland Markets

This Sunday produce market takes on a Christmas theme during December. It breaks out of its mould for the season to introduce you to local artisans sporting arts and crafts. That is, on top of its stellar selection of fresh food items.

As a special treat there will be photo opps with Santa and gift wrapping stalls – because it's all about presentation.

• When: 29 November, 6 December, 13 December and 20 December 2020, from 7am-1pm.
• Where: Cleveland Markets
• More information: Cleveland Markets

10. The Collective Markets Christmas Edition

Easily one of the most accessible and one of the most picturesque markets in town, The Collective Markets calls for a day out. On top of your chance to knock all your Christmas shopping off in one go, there will be stacks of entertainment for all.

As a bonus, this market runs day and night so you can work your seasonal activities around it. Pop by at night for a magical setting of fairy lights as you wander under the marquees.

• When: 18-23 December 2020, 10am-9pm
• Where: Little Stanley Street, South Bank Parklands
• More information: The Collective Markets

11. Scenic Soul Christmas Market

Now in its 3rd year, the Scenic Soul Christmas Market is a local affair with a soulful vibe.

30 boutique shops line the way, selling pottery, flowers, handmade gifts and plants.

Once you're done shopping until you're dropping, stroll down to the local pub for a cool one as you marvel at your wonderful finds.

• When: 12 December 2020, 10am-4pm
• Where: The Nook Collective, 89-93 Queen Street, Marburg, Ipswich
• More information: Scenic Soul Christmas Market

12. St Peter's Anglican Church Wynnum

Searching for all things Christmas themed? Other markets might have a wide range of treats and trinkets but St Peter's is all about the nativity scenes, Christmas lights, angel ornaments and festive wear.

Plus, there will be hot chocolate, a tree display, Christmas raffle and Christmas sing-a-long to round out your market experience.

• When: 12 December 2020, 6-9pm
• Where: St Peter's, 77 Charlotte Street, Wynnum
• More information: St Peter's Wynnum