Illustration of a christmas market scene (Winter Fair)
Christmas Markets

Winter Fair

Step into the festive spirit at the Winter Fair, a delightful event offering a perfect blend of holiday shopping and family entertainment. Discover unique artisan products, gifts, and delicious food from local vendors. Capture cherished Christmas memories in the giant snow globe, join festive workshops, and meet Santa himself. Enjoy live music and a variety of street food options, making it an ideal kickoff to holiday preparations.

What to Expect

Festive market with artisan vendors and family entertainment.

Event Details

Duration

Saturday: 8 hours; Sunday: 7 hours

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Ardingly

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

South of England Agricultural Society

Food & Drink

Street food area, Food Hall, and various traders selling food to take home. Visitors are welcome to bring their own picnic.

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Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, shoppers, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, cheerful, community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Location

South of England Showground
Selsfield Road
Ardingly, West Sussex
RH17 6TL

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
  • Parking: Free parking is available on-site, with spaces for Blue Badge holders. Some parking is on grass and may be uneven.
  • Accessibility: Accessible parking spaces are available, with priority given to Blue Badge holders. Vehicles displaying a Blue Badge will be given priority, and if a pass is not displayed then visitors will be parked in the first available car park. Forward parking cannot be guaranteed after 10 am. Disembarking areas are available at the Blue and Green Gate entrances. Toilets for disabled visitors are provided within the main toilet blocks and specific buildings. A Mobiloo unit will be provided at Green Gate at the South of England Show – an accessible toilet and changing place for those requiring use of a hoist and/or changing bed. Carers are welcome free of charge when attending with a paying adult that they care for; valid carer documentation is required. The Showground has a wide network of paved roads and all buildings have ramp access. The Norfolk Pavilion has a lift to reach the 1st Floor. The Sanctuary provides a quiet space. Please note the floor surface in the Abergavenny Building has a sand floor.
  • Pets: Dogs are allowed but not recommended due to indoor restrictions; assistance dogs are permitted.

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early, especially if you have a Blue Badge, as forward parking cannot be guaranteed after 10 am.
  • Consider purchasing tickets in advance to secure your entry, as they are limited and have sold out in previous years.
  • Dress in layers and wear comfortable, suitable footwear, as the event is predominantly outdoors with paved and grassy areas.
  • While dogs are permitted, they are not recommended due to indoor restrictions; leave them at home if possible.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and support sustainability efforts.

Special Events & Promotions

  • 10% advance discount on tickets ends midnight 13th November 2026
  • Under 16s go free when accompanied by a paying adult (ticket still required)
  • Suggested £2 donation per child towards charitable work

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What attractions are included with my Winter Fair ticket?

Your ticket includes access to live music and selected activities like the giant snow globe. Fairground rides and certain workshops, such as chocolate making and ice skating, will have an additional cost.

Can I buy tickets on the day of the event?

Tickets may be available on the gates, but they are limited and have sold out in previous years. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee entry.

Is there food available at the Winter Fair?

Yes, a variety of food and drink can be purchased from the street food area and the Food Hall. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own picnic.

What is the pet policy for the Winter Fair?

While dogs are allowed, they are not recommended due to the number of indoor areas where they are not permitted. Assistance dogs are welcome.

Is there parking available at the venue?

Yes, free parking is available on-site. This includes designated spaces for Blue Badge holders. Please note that some parking areas are on grass and may be uneven.

Tags

holiday marketfamily friendlyartisanal productsSanta visitsfestive foodholiday shoppingcommunity celebrationinteractive displayslive musicworkshops

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team