A Bristol art complex is hosting a Christmas Fair and Market this weekend. Estate of the Arts on South Liberty Lane in the Bedminster Down/Ashton area of the city, is hosting two days of festive activities on Saturday (November 23) and Sunday (November 24), from 12-5pm.
The two days will see open studios, where artist workspaces will open for the weekend only and visitors will have the chance to meet many of the artists and take part in workshops – from printmaking and ceramics, to painting, fashion, jewellery, and more.
The yearly Christmas market also returns. Renowned for its special selection of local creatives, artists and small businesses, this makers market boasts more than 25 stalls selling all manner of wares, and making for a perfect spot to find something unique for a Christmas gift.
There will be a different selection of traders on each day, so organisers urge visitors to visit on both days to discover even more unique items. Live music, performances and workshops in the art studios are also scheduled throughout the weekend, with line-ups set to drop on social media in the coming days.
You can get to the event via the Number 24, 75, 76, and M1 bus services, on trains to Parsons Street, a 20 minute cycle from the Centre, or by car – there’s a small car park available on site. Entry to the event is £2 per person and dogs are very much welcome.
Taking to Instagram on November 4, organisers posted: “Please, whatever you do, bring your dog to the fair. We love ’em… Please only bring dogs who are happy with lots of people around, friendly with other dogs and small children, and you trust not to pee in places you wouldn’t consider peeing yourself!”
Estate of the Arts is an art studio complex with more than 50 tenants – of which at least ten will be sharing their practice across the weekend. Launched in 2017, Estate of the Arts was the creation of two friends ‘looking to build a creative oasis in their city of Bristol’, describing itself as “a dynamic cultural organisation dedicated to promoting and celebrating the arts”.
It’s situated in a transformed, formerly disused trading estate, and the vibrant community now thrives as a haven for more than 50 talented artists, craftspeople and small businesses. The space regularly hosts events, such as open studios, life drawing classes, hands-on workshops, and bustling makers markets. Find out more about Estate of the Arts here.