Christmas at Wakefield District Markets
The festive season is almost here. So, it's the perfect time to shop local for your Christmas essentials.
From gifts to stocking fillers, festive food to treats, Christmas shopping is a must at this time of year. And Wakefield District Markets has you covered.
Elf School
The school bell is jingling at Castleford and Pontefract Markets!
Our Elf School, led by Santa's Helpers, is coming to Wakefield. They will offer Christmas crafts for the whole family this winter.
Join us for Elf School activity sessions and receive your Elf School certificate.
Enrol your children in these free festive activities. They aim to bring smiles and holiday cheer to all. All materials will be provided, just bring your enthusiasm and Christmas spirit! Slots are all walk up so come anytime between 10am to 3pm to take your seat at our elf workshop!
Dates
Saturday 29 November
10am to 3pm
Castleford Market
FREE
Join Santa’s Helpers for the first festive workshop of the season, where children can choose their elf name, design a badge, and create a Christmas countdown calendar and wooden tree decoration. It’s a joyful way to kick off the holidays and get creative as a family.
Saturday 6 December
10am to 3pm
Castleford Market
FREE
Children can make their own vegetable snowman and reindeer, design a gift bag for someone special, and write their letters to Santa. It’s hands-on, heart-warming fun for the whole family.
Come along and make something magical.
Saturday 13 December
10am to 3pm
Castleford Market
FREE
Elf School is heading into full festive mode! This week, children can create their snowman Christmas cards, festive paper chains and snowflake decorations. It’s imaginative, interactive, and completely free.
Bring your creativity, we’ll supply the sparkle.
Saturday 20 December
10am to 3pm
Pontefract Market
FREE
It’s the final Elf School of the season, and we’re going out with a festive bang! Children can mix up a batch of reindeer food ready for Santa's visit and craft their own Santa Searcher binoculars to help spot the big man himself.
It’s the perfect way to celebrate the countdown to Christmas with crafts, laughter, and a little bit of elf magic.
Don’t miss your last chance to become a certified elf!
Continental Street Market
Castleford’s Continental Street Market is back this December with a festive twist! Carlton Street will be filled with the aromas of seasonal street food, the sparkle of artisan gifts, and the buzz of a truly international market.
It’s the perfect place to pick up unique presents, enjoy a bite to eat, and soak up the holiday atmosphere. From mulled drinks and sweet treats to handcrafted decorations and global flavours, there’s something for everyone.
Wrap up warm and join us for a magical market experience in the run-up to Christmas.
Date and time
4 to 7 December
10am to 6pm
Castleford, Carlton Street
Get Your Skates On
21 to 30 December, Castleford Indoor Market
Free 20-minute sessions
Drop-in only
Castleford Market
Get your skates on! Castleford’s pop-up ice rink is back for the holidays! Whether you're a seasoned skater or just want to try something new, this free festive experience is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends. No booking required, just turn up and join the next available session.
Opening times
- Sunday 21 December 12pm to 4pm
- Monday 22 December 10am to 4pm
- Tuesday 23 December 10am to 4pm
- Wednesday 24 December 10am to 1pm
- Saturday 27 December 10am to 4pm
- Monday 29 December 10am to 4pm
- Tuesday 30 December 10am to 4pm
Come for the skating. Stay for the holiday cheer. Snap some photos to capture the magic, and tag us on your socials #WFfestivemarkets25
KLH Craft Market
Saturday 20 December 10am to 3pm
Castleford Market
FREE
You will find unique and handmade Christmas gifts at the KLH Craft Market. Talented and local traders will be selling everything from festive decorations and jewellery to stocking fillers.
It’s the perfect place to pick up last-minute gifts and support small businesses in your community.
Shop local and enjoy the festive buzz.
Bundle up and get ready to spread some festive cheer with us this year at Wakefield district markets.
Don’t forget to tag your pictures with #WFfestivemarkets25