The most magical time of the year is arriving early at Oxford’s Covered Market, and we’re celebrating in true Market style, with festive treats, twinkling lights, and two special events to mark the season.
Breakfast with Santa – It’s Letter Writing Time!
Saturday 15 November | From 10am
Oxford Covered Market
Start your festive season with a morning full of magic! On Saturday 15 November, Father Christmas makes a special stop at the Covered Market to meet children and help them send their Christmas wishes straight to the North Pole.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast from one of the Market’s cafés or food stalls, then pop by to see Santa between 10am and 12pm. He’ll be there to share smiles, listen to Christmas dreams, and lend a hand with letter writing — offering a few festive secrets from his workshop along the way.
Once the letters are written, post them straight into Santa’s official North Pole post box, ready for express delivery to his elves.
There’s no booking required — just come along, grab a bite, and soak up the festive atmosphere. The Market will be alive with the scent of pastries and hot chocolate, cheerful chatter, and plenty of friendly traders spreading early Christmas joy.
Late-Night Christmas Shopping at the Market
Friday 28 November | Until 10pm
Oxford Covered Market
As the evenings draw in and the city begins to sparkle, join us for one of Oxford’s most atmospheric shopping nights of the year — Late-Night Christmas Shopping in the Covered Market!
On Friday 28 November, we’ll be keeping our doors open until 10pm, transforming the Market into a twinkling winter wonderland.
Stroll through our historic arcades beneath the glow of festive lights, discover unique gifts and handcrafted treasuresfrom our independent traders, and treat yourself to seasonal delights – from hot chocolate and mulled wine to festive bakes, cheeses, and locally made produce.
Many of our traders will be offering special festive promotions, limited-edition gifts, and samples to taste, so it’s the perfect chance to tick off your Christmas list while supporting Oxford’s local makers and shopkeepers.
You’ll also find live music, seasonal decorations, and plenty of spots to pause for a warming drink or a bite to eat – all surrounded by the charm of the Market’s 18th-century architecture and its welcoming community spirit.