Crowds flock to Portishead Christmas Market

Portishead High Street was bursting with festive cheer on Sunday as the ever-popular Christmas Posset Market returned to the town centre, drawing large crowds for an afternoon of seasonal celebration.

Families arrived in force to enjoy a vibrant mix of fairground rides, gift and craft stalls, along with a bustling programme of entertainment. More than 70 stalls lined the High Street, offering everything from handmade decorations and artisan products to charity displays and community group showcases. Many independent shops also stayed open throughout the afternoon, giving visitors an ideal chance to support local traders while ticking off some Christmas shopping.

A wide selection of hot food and drink stands added to the festive atmosphere, serving up winter warmers perfect for the chilly December weather. The rich aromas drifting through the High Street tempted visitors to pause, indulge and warm their hands between browsing.

The market unfolded beneath Portishead’s much-loved Christmas lights, which once again provided a spectacular backdrop. The illuminations, widely regarded as among the best community displays in the region, cast a magical glow over the event.

Live entertainment played a key role in the afternoon’s festivities, with Christmas carollers and dancers performing to delighted crowds and adding a traditional seasonal flourish to the occasion.

Organised by the events team behind the town’s Christmas lights committee, the market stands as one of the main fundraisers for Portishead’s annual illuminations. The strong turnout is expected to give a welcome boost to the committee’s efforts to continue delivering the impressive display year after year.

With its lively atmosphere, community spirit and wealth of festive offerings, the Christmas Posset Market once again proved why it remains a highlight of Portishead’s winter calendar.