Two Christmas Markets, Two Very Different Festive Experiences

2 hours ago

3 min read

Christmas is coming to Circular Social: and this year, we’re bringing you two very different festive market experiences in Exeter.

Whether you’re looking for a late-night Christmas shopping experience with a generous helping of kitsch and nostalgia, or a magical family-friendly afternoon complete with an elf toy shop and a festive grotto, we’ve got something for you.

And, of course, both events are about what we love most: bringing people together and giving brilliant local businesses a chance to be seen, heard and supported.

First up: Circular Social's KitschY Christmas Market

Friday 11 December | 5pm–8pm | Boston Tea Party, Exeter

Forget minimalist Christmas. This is Christmas turned all the way up.

Our late-night Christmas market at Boston Tea Party is all about nostalgia, sparkle, colour and unapologetic festive fun. Think twinkling tinsel, retro decorations, bold colours and that wonderfully over-the-top Christmas feeling we all secretly (or not so secretly!) love.

You’ll be able to browse a curated selection of local businesses, discover unique gifts and pick up those special presents that you simply won’t find on the high street.

It’s the perfect opportunity to do some of your Christmas shopping while supporting independent businesses: and enjoy a festive evening out at the same time.

Whether you’re searching for stocking fillers, gifts for someone who is impossible to buy for, something beautiful for your home, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere, there’ll be plenty to discover.

And because it’s a late-night market, you can make an evening of it. Grab a festive drink, bring your friends and enjoy a little Christmas shopping with a difference.

📍 Boston Tea Party, 84 Queen Street, Exeter 📅 Friday 11 December 2026 ⏰ 5pm–8pm

Then: Christmas at The Birdhouse

Sunday 13 December | 11am–3pm | The Birdhouse, Exeter

Just two days later, we’re heading to The Birdhouse in Alphington for a completely different kind of Christmas experience.

This one is all about festive family fun, local makers and a little bit of Christmas magic.

Set at The Birdhouse, the outdoor market will bring together local businesses and makers, giving you the chance to browse unique gifts and festive treats while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

But there’s plenty more going on than shopping.

Children can step into our Elves' Toy Shop, where they’ll get to take part in a magical Christmas activity, while the beautiful wisteria tunnel grotto will create a wonderfully festive setting for the day.

And we’re especially excited to welcome families for a Meet Mrs Claus experience, giving little ones the chance to get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy some magical festive interaction.

There’ll also be the opportunity to grab a hot drink from the café, wander around the stalls and enjoy a relaxed Sunday afternoon surrounded by Christmas cheer.

It’s Christmas shopping, but with a little more magic thrown in.

📍 The Birdhouse, Pinces Road, Exeter📅 Sunday 13 December 2026⏰ 11am–3pm

Why shop local this Christmas?

For us, Christmas isn't just about buying more things. It's about where we buy them from and who we're supporting when we do.

Behind every small business is a person, a family, a passion, a creative idea or years of hard work. When you buy from an independent business, your money can have a much more direct impact; helping someone continue doing what they love and keeping money within our local economy.

And that's at the heart of Circular Social.

We created our community to help small, independent and more mindful businesses get seen, get heard and connect with other people who care about shopping and living a little more consciously.

Our Christmas markets are a chance to bring that community to life.

So, whether you're looking for a nostalgic night of festive shopping or a magical family day out, come and discover some of the brilliant small businesses on our doorstep this Christmas.

Because Christmas shopping doesn't have to mean heading to the same high street shops or clicking 'add to basket' over and over again.

Sometimes the best gifts are the ones you discover from a small business, meet the person who made them, and know that your purchase is supporting something local.

Come and shop small. Come and meet local businesses. Come and get festive with us. ❤️