The best Christmas markets in Sydney 2020

1. Paddington Christmas Markets

Twilight Christmas markets seem to be all the rage, and Paddington has cottoned on to the idea. Last year it held its festive markets the Thursday just before Christmas, where handpicked local designers gathered outside the historic Paddington Uniting Church to deliver bespoke handicrafts, unique stocking stuffers and artisan Christmas treats.

This year, it's hosting its twilight markets a little earlier with promises of good food, music, floristry classes and free gift wrapping.

• When: 6 December 2019, 4-9pm
• Where: Paddington Uniting Church, 395 Oxford Street, Paddington
• Cost: Free
• More information: Paddington Markets

2. Finders Keepers Spring/Summer Market

The seasonal Finders Keepers Market is one that needs no introduction. It’s a melting pot of fashion, craft, art and design from independent sellers and makers, and because the event curators constantly seek fresh new talent to add to the bill no two markets are ever alike. Food trucks and live music set the scene, so there will be no shortage of entertainment or sustenance to get you through the 200 stalls.

• When: 6-8 December 2019
• Where: The Cutaway, Barangaroo Reserve 1 Merriman St, Barangaroo NSW 2000
• Cost: $5
• More information: Finders Keepers SS Market

Image: Jacquie Manning

3. Carriageworks Christmas Farmers Market

This year, Carriageworks is doing something a little different changing up its twilight market into a bright and sunny daytime one.

It's a festive version of the venue's weekend Farmers Market so the primary focus is on seasonal produce - which is perfect if you want to take the reins and whip up a home-cooked Christmas meal.

Held two days before Christmas, it’s also great for that last-minute shop before the holidays kick in! Freshly made food is available to purchase and Christmas carollers will roam throughout.

• When: 21 December 2019, 8am-2pm
• Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
• Cost: Free
• More information: Carriageworks

4. Mosman Christmas Markets

During Christmas, Mosman’s standard weekend market is transformed into a festive feast for the senses. There’s a seemingly endless number of local produce and craft stalls to choose great gifts and stocking stuffers from.

• When: 7 December 2019, 8am-3pm
• Where: Mosman Square and Village Green, Spit Junction
• Cost: Free
• More information: Mosman Council

5. Chippendale Christmas Markets

The Chippendale Christmas Markets makes its debut this year and features a curated list of 15 boutiques helmed by local makers and shakers. This includes Ellery, Something For Jess, Whit Rabbit Gallery, Graffitiore and Gallerie Pompom.

A healthy load of vegan products will be available to purchase across the boutiques and any bottles of water purchased will have their proceeds donated to Maggie’s rescue.

As an added bonus, the first 100 people to pop by the Something For Jess cafe will receive a vegan Christmas basket.

• When: TBC
• Where: Sutherland Lane, behind Something For Jess cafe
• Cost: Free
• More information: Chippendale Christmas Markets

6. Sydney Fish Market’s 36-hour seafood marathon

This Sydney tradition has been running for over 20 years and it’s not slowing down for anyone. It’s a 36-hour seafood shopping spree and your last chance to grab the freshest seafood in Sydney to cook on the barbie this Christmas. For more traditional chefs, Christmas turkeys, hams and cold meats are also available.

• When: 23-24 December 2019
• Where: Sydney Fish Market, Bank Street, Pyrmont
• Cost: Free
• More information: Sydney Fish Market

7. Kirribilli Markets

Founded in 1976, the Kirribilli Markets have grown to become one of the best loved markets in Sydney’s North Shore. The markets alternate every weekend between a general market and an art, design and fashion market with over 200 stalls present at each. From mid-December, the art, design and fashion market takes a break, but the general market is still up and running.

• When: 8 December 2019 (art, design and fashion market), 14 & 21 December 2019 (general market)
• Where: Alfred Street South, Milson’s Point
• Cost: Free
• More information: The Kirribilli Markets

8. The Big Design Market Sydney

Do your Christmas shopping, take the kids for a day out, treat yourself to a meal out and support local at the Big Design Market.

Over 200 stall holders will be showing off their wares which range from fashion and homewares to cosmetics and drinks like gin and kombucha.

Showbags are also available for early birds and there's even the chance to win over $1,300 in prizes.

• When: 6-8 December, 10am
• Where: Royal Hall of Industries, Moore Park
• Cost: $5, kids under 12 free
• More information: The Big Design Market