From just 20 stalls in 2016 to one of Poundbury’s much-loved festive traditions, the Poundbury Christmas Market celebrates its 10th anniversary on Saturday 28th November 2026.
This November marks a very special milestone for the Poundbury Christmas Market as it celebrates ten years of bringing together independent businesses, local communities and the magic of Christmas.
What began in 2016 with just 20 stalls in Poundbury’s ButterMarket has grown into a wonderful annual celebration of small businesses from across Dorset, Somerset and the wider South West.
In 2023, the market moved to its new home in Crown Square, transforming the beautiful surroundings into a festive shopping destination filled with independent traders, artisan makers, delicious food and seasonal entertainment.
Now, ten years on, the market continues to celebrate everything that makes shopping small so special.
Ten Years of Community, Friendship and Small Businesses
For organiser Charlotte, the market has always been about much more than simply bringing stalls together.
Charlotte, organiser of the Poundbury Christmas Market, said:
“When I look back to 2016, when we started with just 20 stalls in the ButterMarket, I never imagined we would be celebrating ten years of this wonderful event.
“Over the years, I’ve had the absolute pleasure of meeting some truly incredible small business owners. Many of those businesses have returned year after year, and I’m now incredibly proud to call so many of them my friends.
“I’ve learnt so much from these amazing people. Their creativity, determination, resilience and passion for what they do never fail to inspire me.
“Small businesses have faced some incredibly challenging times over the last few years, and events like this are more important than ever.
“Behind every stall is a person, a family, a dream and an enormous amount of hard work. When you choose to shop small, you’re supporting so much more than just a business.
“To be able to bring everyone together for our tenth anniversary really is something special, and I feel incredibly proud to be part of it.”
A Celebration of the Best of the South West
Taking place on Saturday 28th November, from 10am until 4pm, Crown Square will once again come alive with a wonderful collection of independent businesses.
Visitors can expect everything from beautifully handcrafted artisan gifts and unique Christmas presents to delicious festive food, sweet treats and carefully crafted alcoholic beverages.
With a fantastic mix of returning favourites and exciting new traders, the market offers the perfect opportunity to discover something different while supporting independent businesses.
The event is made possible with the valued support of the Duchy of Cornwall, the residents of Poundbury and the many businesses and individuals who contribute to its success.
Festive Entertainment and a Little Christmas Magic
This year’s celebrations will also feature a wonderful programme of festive entertainment.
Visitors can look forward to performances from the Rock Choir and the Bovington Military Wives Choir, alongside a few special surprises to mark the market’s tenth anniversary.
Father Christmas will also be making an appearance in a slightly different capacity this year, with more details to be revealed closer to the event.
For families wishing to arrange a special visit to see Father Christmas, he will also be visiting Boo’s Toy Shop in Crown Square on Sunday 13th December.
A Special Invitation to Celebrate Ten Years
As the market prepares to celebrate its tenth birthday, Charlotte hopes the local community will come out in force to support the event and the businesses behind it.
“Ten years is an incredible milestone, and I really want this year’s market to be a celebration of everyone who has helped make it what it is today.
“From the traders who put their hearts and souls into their businesses to the wonderful people who visit us each year, and of course the Duchy of Cornwall and the residents of Poundbury who continue to support us.
“This event wouldn’t be possible without them.
“My biggest wish for our tenth anniversary is to see Crown Square full of people enjoying the atmosphere, discovering wonderful independent businesses and supporting the people who make our local communities so special.
“So please, wrap up warm, bring your family and friends, enjoy some delicious festive treats and join us for a little Christmas magic.
“Let’s celebrate ten years of the Poundbury Christmas Market together!”
