South Bank has put a warm, summery twist on the winter markets of Europe with this year’s Christmas Markets. Running until 23 Dec, the South Bank Christmas Markets have transformed Stanley Street Plaza into a wonderland of twinkling lights, festive decorations and the scent of real Christmas trees.
Enjoy food with a festive flare (gingerbread, brownies, churros and egg nog) from the Christmas Pantry section of the markets while Gifting Lane will make Christmas shopping a breeze with options including wooden children’s toys, hand-poured candles, beautiful cards and jewelry.
My favorite stalls were The Design Farm, a Sunshine Coast business run by the awesome and super friendly Dean who kindly put up with Katy and I speed talking at him about the pros of social media and Grand Designs (you won’t find him online just yet, so visit him at the markets, or you can find his amazing products at Lamington in Noosa), and Fox & Fallow by the super talented Janet who we believe has the moves like Jagger (especially when it comes to The Horses) and an amazing skill when it comes to Typography (you’re all welcome to send me some of her lovely cards!)
You can also have your gifts wrapped onsite in exchange for a gold coin donation to Youngcare (until 16 December) and Hummingbird House (17-23 December).
In addition, live carol singers, children’s entertainers and musicians will ensure the festive frivolity of the season is enjoyed by all.
The markets are on from 11am-8pm daily, except 17-21 December when they will be open until 9pm.
And, if you’re heading to the markets, stick around and enjoy the outdoor Christmas Cinema Series (click here for the schedule) at Streets Beach (6.30pm and 8.30pm, 17-23 Dec) and the fireworks (8.15pm, 17-21 Dec).
There are a dozen great movies to choose from including Polar Express, Deck the Halls and Home Alone, but my pick is always Miracle on 34th Street, which is being screened on 23 Dec at 6.30pm.
