You won't want to miss The Magic of Christmas Night Market, taking place on December 2nd and 3rd, 2025, at the Awapuni Racecourse near Palmerston North. With over 160 stalls showcasing local art, crafts, and gourmet foods, it's a perfect spot for holiday shopping. Enjoy live music and family-friendly workshops while sampling delicious food from various vendors. The market's festive atmosphere is enhanced by community spirit, making it a joyful outing for everyone. Plus, a portion of the proceeds supports local charities. There's so much more to discover at this vibrant event waiting for you!
Major Highlights
- Experience over 160 stalls featuring local art, crafts, gourmet food, and clothing at the Awapuni Racecourse on December 2nd and 3rd, 2025.
- Enjoy a festive atmosphere with live music, Christmas carols, and family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant community spirit.
- Participate in hands-on workshops and interactive performances designed for all ages, enhancing your holiday shopping experience.
- Free all-day parking and wheelchair-friendly facilities ensure easy access for all attendees, with safety measures in place throughout the event.
- Support local charities as a percentage of door sales is donated to Arohanui Hospice and other community organizations.
Event Details
The Christmas Night Market takes place on the first Tuesday and Wednesday in December, with the 2025 event scheduled for December 2nd and 3rd from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
You'll find over 160 fabulous stalls showcasing a diverse range of products, from art and crafts to gourmet food and clothing. This is your chance to support small and local businesses, including bricks-and-mortar shops and online vendors.
When it comes to ticket pricing, you have options. Tickets will be available online starting November 1, 2024, with general admission presale priced at $8.00 (plus fees) and a double pass for $16.00 (plus fees).
If you prefer to buy at the door, general admission will be $10.00, though additional fees may apply.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to pre-order your Christmas feasts while enjoying a festive atmosphere filled with live music and Christmas carols.
The market not only offers unique shopping experiences but also supports a good cause, as a percentage of door sales will be donated to Arohanui Hospice.
Venue and Facilities
Located at the Awapuni Racecourse on Racecourse Rd in Palmerston North, the Christmas Night Market offers a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere for all attendees.
The venue layout is designed to be accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the festivities. With ample facilities, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable experience.
Here are some key facility features:
- Free parking: Plenty of all-day parking available, with members of the Rotary Club directing you.
- EFTPOS cash out: Located in the Main Foyer, but bringing cash is recommended due to possible long queues.
- Accessible amenities: Including disabled toilets, lift and ramp access, and seating areas in the outdoor feasting hall.
- Food options: Enjoy a variety of food trucks and coffee from Ebony Coffee Roasters.
With disabled parking available close to the entrance and pram-friendly pathways throughout, the Christmas Night Market ensures everyone can partake in the holiday spirit.
Just remember, no dogs are allowed, except for mobility or guide dogs. Enjoy your festive shopping experience!
Unique Shopping Experience
At the Christmas Night Market, you'll discover a unique shopping experience that blends festive cheer with local charm. With over 160 fabulous stalls, you'll find everything from art and crafts to gourmet food and clothing. Each stall represents local and small businesses, giving you the opportunity to support your community while embracing holiday traditions.
As you browse, you'll feel the strong community spirit that permeates the market, making your shopping more meaningful. You can explore an extensive range of products, ensuring you'll find the perfect gifts or feast pre-orders for your holiday celebrations.
Plus, specialized food options from food trucks add to the festive atmosphere, catering to various tastes and preferences. You'll appreciate the convenience of cash-out facilities, making your shopping experience smooth and enjoyable.
Moreover, your visit contributes to local charities, as a percentage of door sales is donated to Arohanui Hospice, further enhancing the sense of community giving during this festive season.
Entertainment and Activities
At the Christmas Night Market, you'll enjoy live music performances that fill the air with holiday cheer.
Engage in hands-on workshops where you can learn new skills and create festive crafts.
There's something for everyone, making your experience truly memorable!
Live Music Performances
While you stroll through the enchanting Christmas Night Market, you'll be delighted by the live music performances that fill the air with holiday cheer.
With a blend of local bands and musicians, the musical diversity offers something for everyone. The festive atmosphere is heightened by traditional Christmas carols and modern holiday tunes, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.
You can expect:
- Multiple musical acts over two days, featuring both local choirs and bands.
- Family-friendly performances that engage children and adults alike.
- Interactive elements that invite audience participation, creating a sense of community engagement.
- A magical ambiance with twinkling lights and festive decorations enhancing the music.
These live performances not only contribute to a nostalgic holiday experience but also create a communal feeling of joy.
As you sip on mulled wine and savor festive foods, the music seamlessly integrates with the vibrant atmosphere.
Whether you're dancing along or simply enjoying the sound, live music at the Christmas Night Market is sure to be a highlight of your holiday season.
Engaging Workshops Available
Immerse yourself in a variety of engaging workshops at the Christmas Night Market, where creativity knows no bounds. You'll find hands-on learning experiences designed for all ages, offering a chance to develop your creative skills while crafting unique gifts and festive decorations.
Whether you're interested in painting, pottery, or other artistic pursuits, there's something for everyone. Food enthusiasts can join workshops focused on cooking techniques and food preparation, allowing you to master gourmet recipes and sampling local delicacies.
You can pre-order Christmas feasts while enjoying demonstrations from talented local vendors. These workshops are seamlessly integrated into the vibrant atmosphere of the market, making it a perfect place to spend quality time with family and friends.
As you create, you'll also have the opportunity to take home your masterpieces, making your experience even more memorable. With over 150 fabulous stalls nearby, you can shop for materials and gifts to enhance your holiday spirit.
Don't miss the chance to learn something new while supporting local artisans and businesses. The Christmas Night Market is where creativity and community come together for an unforgettable festive experience!
Food and Beverage Options
What culinary delights await you at the Christmas Night Market? Get ready to indulge in a fantastic array of food and beverage options that'll elevate your festive spirits.
The market's vibrant atmosphere complements the gourmet cuisine available from various food stalls and trucks scattered throughout the event grounds. You'll have a chance to enjoy an alfresco dining experience while savoring unique dishes from local vendors.
Here's what you can expect:
- Gourmet food stalls featuring artisan and handmade culinary creations.
- Specialty beverages like rich coffee from Ebony Coffee Roasters and delightful hot chocolate for those chilly evenings.
- Festive drinks that perfectly complement your meals, adding to the holiday cheer.
- Family-friendly options that ensure everyone leaves satisfied and smiling.
As you dine in this magical Christmas setting, live music and carols will enhance your experience, making it even more special.
With both indoor and outdoor dining areas, you'll find the perfect spot to enjoy your meal. Plus, cash-out facilities make it easy to grab your favorite treats and drinks without hassle.
This festive shopping experience isn't to be missed!
Accessibility and Safety Measures
As you enjoy the culinary delights at the Christmas Night Market, you'll find that accessibility and safety measures are thoughtfully implemented to ensure a smooth experience for everyone. The event features an inclusive design, making it wheelchair and pushchair friendly with ramps and lift access throughout. You'll also appreciate the convenient disabled parking available near the entrance.
Here's a quick overview of the key accessibility and safety features:
| Accessibility Features | Safety Measures |
|---|---|
| Wheelchair and pushchair friendly | Event runs rain or shine |
| Disabled parking near the entrance | Clear signage and large maps |
| Toilets, including disabled facilities | First aid and emergency services |
To enhance your experience, staff and volunteers are on hand to assist with navigation and ensure emergency preparedness. While no dogs are allowed (except service dogs), you can enjoy the event with peace of mind knowing that safety compliance is a priority. Free parking is available, with optional donations to the Rotary Club for added safety management. Enjoy the festive spirit knowing that your comfort and safety are well taken care of!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Attending the Night Market?
There aren't any age restrictions for attending the night market. You'll find family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy. Just remember to practice good night market etiquette, keeping the atmosphere fun and respectful for all.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
While you can't exactly feast like a king on your own food, you'll find plenty of delicious beverage options and gourmet delights from vendors. The food policies encourage supporting local businesses, making it a flavorful adventure!
Is There a Limit on the Number of Stalls I Can Visit?
There's no limit on the number of stalls you can visit! With such stall variety, make a shopping list and pace yourself. Bring cash for quicker transactions, ensuring you savor every moment of your experience.
Will There Be Any Special Guests or Performers?
There aren't any specific special guests announced, but you'll enjoy various guest performances throughout the event, adding to the festive entertainment. You'll find plenty of live music and activities to keep you engaged and entertained!
What Should I Do if I Lose Something at the Event?
If you lose something, don't panic! Immediately contact event staff and follow the lost item procedure. Describe your item in detail, check lost and found, and leave your contact info for follow-up.
Conclusion
The Magic of Christmas Night Market offers a delightful festive shopping experience you won't want to miss. Did you know that last year, over 20,000 visitors enjoyed the market's charm and festive spirit? With unique gifts, tasty treats, and fun activities, there's something for everyone. Plus, the venue's accessibility ensures that all can join in the celebration. So grab your family and friends, and make lasting memories at this enchanting event near Palmerston North!
