Christmas Market 2025: A festive hit

The Hospice in Pembury transformed into a winter wonderland from 28^th to 30^th November, as the community came together to experience our much-loved Christmas Market, raising over £31,649 for patients and their loved ones!

With 47 stalls on offer selling handcrafted gifts, artisan produce, jewellery, décor and more, people enjoyed the magical atmosphere whilst making a difference with each purchase.

The weekend was buzzing with activity, and over 150 people came along to the exclusive Christmas Market Opening Night on 28th November, getting first pick of all the wonderful goodies on display and kicking off their festive season early.

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Rachel, from The Candle Sanctuary, said: “I’ve been having a stall at the Christmas Market for the last four years, and it’s always so well supported. I think people really value the service that the Hospice provides in the community. The fact that you’re coming to do your Christmas shopping whilst benefitting a worthy cause makes people happy to spend.”

“It’s just so lovely to support the Hospice in so many ways. I’d encourage people to come and see the different stalls; Father Christmas is here, lots of different activities, lovely mince pies and cake as always, and by coming, you’re supporting the Hospice,” added Julie, who owns Gifts by Julie.

Alongside the traditional Christmas Market atmosphere and the best of local stalls, people enjoyed wreath-making, tasty food and drink, and festive entertainment provided by Mr Myles Music, Lucy Garrioch Choir and Somerhill School Choir.

Tara, whose mum was supported by the Hospice, shared: “The Christmas Market is phenomenal, this is the first time I’ve been, and there are lots of little stalls, cakes, food, and it’s just such a nice atmosphere. My mum was here before she passed away, and my family were able to stay here pretty much every night and be there during her last moments.

“It’s a really special place, the people who work here are angels.”

The family-friendly event also gave children an opportunity to meet Santa in his Grotto, where they excitedly lined up to share their Christmas wishes and receive gifts, with one little girl coming back to give Santa a present of his own!

Santa himself wished everyone a jolly festive season, thanking the community for their support. “Merry Christmas to you and thank you for supporting Hospice in the Weald this year. They appreciate it so much because you help all the people who are looked after by these wonderful nurses and doctors. It’s not just a Merry Christmas from me; it’s a Merry Christmas from them!” he shared.

Kerry Berry, Relationship Fundraising Executive, concluded: “It was an amazing and magical weekend, filled with festive fun, warmth, and Christmas spirit. Lots of excited children visited the fantastic Santa’s Grotto, with Father Christmas keeping the magic alive. Thank you to all our stallholders, visitors and volunteers who made this happen.”