Artisan Christmas Markets to Celebrate Local Makers Across Mid and East Antrim
Wednesday 26 November 2025
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council is preparing to welcome residents and visitors to a series of Christmas Artisan Markets that will showcase local producers, seasonal produce and handcrafted gifts.
These much-loved markets are a key part of the Borough’s festive programme, creating welcoming spaces where families can enjoy time together, meet local makers and soak up the Christmas atmosphere in the heart of their town centres.
Ballymena market will run from Wednesday 3 to Monday 8 December in Wellington Court from 11am to 4pm.
Shoppers can look forward to artisan food, festive bakes, handmade decorations and unique gifts from local producers and creators.
Larne’s market follows from Wednesday 10 to Monday 15 December at Broadway, also operating from 11am to 4pm.
Both markets will close on the Sunday and trade as usual on the Monday.
Deputy Mayor of Mid and East Antrim, Councillor Tyler Hoey, said the markets continue to play an important role in drawing people into town centres at a time when supporting small businesses really matters.
“These markets are always a highlight in the Christmas calendar, and they bring such warmth and character to our towns.
“They give local traders a platform to shine, and they give shoppers a chance to pick up something original while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
“It is important that we continue to support the brilliant homegrown makers and producers who contribute so much to our Borough, and the Christmas markets are the perfect opportunity to do exactly that.”
Cherryl Graham who runs ‘Made by Cherrybee’ and is a stallholder at this year’s Larne and Ballymena markets added:
“A lot of us look forward to these markets each year because you get to meet the people who support local businesses like ours.
“There’s always a lovely atmosphere and you get to see regular customers, meet new ones, share what we make and be part of the Christmas buzz in the town centre.”
This year’s festive programme encourages families to explore what is happening across the Borough, with the markets sitting alongside light switch-ons, community events and the new Christmas Twinkle Trail at Shaftesbury Park in Carrickfergus.
Full event listings and updates are available at our Christmas listing or by following Council's social media channels.