Have you ever visited St Nicholas Market with your children? Interesting, quirky and a little bit different this traditional indoor market has been running in Bristol since 1743.

Home to the largest collection of independent retailers in Bristol and offering a variety of quality crafts, gifts and food, this year the market will be open seven days a week in the lead up to Christmas.

There are also some fantastic activities for children and families during this year’s festive season!

Christmas Lights Switch-On: Saturday 19th November

Shoppers will be in for a festive treat on Saturday 19th November as the Christmas lights at Bristol’s St Nicholas Market are switched on. The Lord Mayor will officially turn on the lights to help get everyone in the festive spirit and begin the countdown to Christmas.

As part of the event, TangleFace Arts will be running lantern making workshops in which children will be able to make a lantern so that they can take part in the big switch on at 5.30pm. The lanterns will come compete with LED bulbs and can be taken home after the event.

There will also be face painting and magic shows in the Glass Arcade, plus music and festive food to enjoy.

Here are the times of the activities:

• Wilf Keys Magic Show, Glass Arcade 2pm to 6pm
• Face painting, Glass Arcade, 2pm to 6pm
• Lantern making, Corn Exchange Foyer, 2pm to 5pm
• Light switch on with the Lord Mayor, Glass Arcade, 5.30pm

Launch of the Enchanted Winter Market: Saturday 3rd December

From 2nd until 24th December the Enchanted Market will take both children and grown-ups on a magical journey filled with wonderful illuminated willow animal sculptures, live music, children’s wishing tree and a fantastic variety of artisan Christmas gifts, food and drink.

On the launch of the Enchanted Market on Saturday 3rd December there will be lots of great free activities for children such as face painting, gingerbread decorating workshop, secret cave storytelling, music and a wishing tree!

A professional storyteller will deliver a wonderful colourful story that will last for 45 minutes, with everyone seated on cushions. This activity will be ideal for Suitable for children aged 5 – 10 (who must be accompanied by an adult).

The children’s storytelling slots will be at 2.30pm, 3.30pm and 4.30pm. Book tickets for the free storytelling on Eventbrite.

There will also be mulled wine, spiced apple juice and mince pies!

* * *

You can find St Nicholas Market on Corn Street, Bristol BS1 1JQ. Please visit the St Nicholas Market website to find out more.

For details about lots more festive family-friendly events coming up please head on over to the Bristol Mum Facebook Page.