Rochester Christmas Market
Set in the historic Rochester Castle Gardens, this festive market showcases more than 120 stalls offering locally produced and sustainable gifts, clothing, homeware, and artisan foods. Visitors can sample a variety of seasonal food and drink in the Bavarian Village. The event also features live entertainment performed on the bandstand alongside a family funfair.
What to Expect
Kent's biggest free-to-enter Christmas market with over 120 stalls.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Medway Council
Food & Drink
The Bavarian Village offers a variety of festive food and drink.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and festive shoppers
Vibe
Festive and bustling
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free to enter.
- Hours: Fridays 12pm to 9pm; Saturdays 10am to 9pm; Sundays 10am to 6pm.
Tips & Advice
- The market only opens on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays over three weekends, so pick your weekend before heading to Rochester Castle Gardens.
- Visit on 5 or 6 December to combine the market with the free Dickensian Christmas Festival's parades, carol singers, bell ringers and street theatre.
- Save room for festive food and drink in the Bavarian Village, then catch the live entertainment on the bandstand.
- Bring the kids along for the family funfair, which is part of the market in Rochester Castle Gardens.
- Dress warmly if you stay into the evening on a Friday or Saturday, since the market is outdoors and stays open after dark.
Special Events & Promotions
- Dickensian Christmas Festival weekend on 5 and 6 December: free, with carol singers, bell ringers, costumed parades and street theatre with Dickens characters.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I buy at the market?
There are over 120 stalls with products and treats you won't find on the High Street. They include locally produced and sustainable gifts, clothing, homeware, and artisan goods and foods.
Where is the food and drink?
Festive food and drink is in the Bavarian Village inside the market.
Is there anything for kids?
Yes. There's a family funfair, and there's live entertainment on the bandstand.
What happens on the Dickensian Christmas Festival weekend?
On 5 and 6 December, the free Dickensian Christmas Festival turns Rochester into a Victorian-themed Christmas shopping experience. It has carol singers, bell ringers, costumed parades and street theatre with Dickens characters.
How can I get involved?
Trading applications are closed for this year. The market is always looking for stewards and volunteers. Performers can get in touch by emailing eventsteam@medway.gov.uk.
More Christmas Events Near Rochester
More Christmas Events near Rochester
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.