Already envisioning your home decked out for the holiday season? Dreaming of finding the perfect and oh so unique gift for everyone on your Christmas shopping list? Do you go a bit weak at the knees at the idea of fair filled with beautiful items? Well, then, please let us introduce you to the Spirit of Christmas Fair in London. This is London’s most exclusive holiday shopping event with over 650 independent boutiques presenting unique, stylish and exquisite gifts. Mark your calendars for November 5th-10th, 2013 for the thirteenth annual Spirit of Christmas Fair at London Olympia in Kensington.
With its soaring glass ceiling and iconic Victorian architecture, the Spirit of Christmas Fair is right at home at Olympia. Beneath the barrel-vaulted roof you’ll find one tempting boutique after another, each one hand-picked by the Spirit of Christmas Fair experts and approved by House & Garden. What you’ll find on display is not what you’ll spot along the high street. What’s so special about the Spirit of Christmas Fair is that it brings together the most stylish and unique brands from across the UK all under one roof. And the fact that it’s a very cool roof is just an extra treat!
The Spirit of Christmas Fair presents the very best in holiday home decor, fashion and gifts. But there are also fun workshops, a tempting holiday food hall, gourmet pop-up restaurant and more to discover. Here’s just a few highlights to look forward to at this year’s Spirit of Christmas Fair!
Holiday Shopping with Style
Forget about mass produced tchotchkes and London souvenirs you can find on any street corner. The Spirit of Christmas Fair is the place for gorgeous seasonal decorations, holiday ornaments and decor and a wonderful selection of gifts. Think handcrafted jewellery by top UK artists, exquisite interior home design boutiques and coveted fashion and accessory designers. Here’s where you’ll find something truly unique and gorgeous for everyone on your shopping list from the littlest to the most impossible to shop for man. Start making your list … and checking it twice!
House & Garden Workshops
As if fabulous holiday shopping under one roof wasn’t enough! The more crafty minded (in the most creative of senses) among you will be happy to know that the Spirit of Christmas Fair also presents a series of interesting House & Garden Workshops, including chic Christmas wrapping, floral arranging, champagne tasting (oh my!), chocolate making classes (yes, please!) and holiday themed cooking lessons. Take a break from shopping to enjoy tips from industry experts for adding that special touch to your holiday celebrations this year.
A Taste of the Holiday Season at The Food Hall
The Christmas season wouldn’t be complete without all your holiday favorites on the table! Take a stroll through the Food Hall at the Spirit of Christmas and enjoy sampling delicacies from across the UK. On display will be the creations of leading independent artisans and Royal Warrant holders, such as handmade cheeses, Christmas puddings and desserts, truffles, fine wines and more. Pick out your favorites from the UK to enjoy together with family and friends over the holidays.
And the perfect way to top off a remarkable day at the Spirit of Christmas Fair? Stop by the Champagne Bar for a glass of champagne and seafood break. Or visit Mosimann’s exclusive pop-up Winter Restaurant where you can enjoy a fine seasonal menu before checking off the rest of your holiday shopping list.
Tickets & Location
For more information, opening times and to book your tickets online, visit the Spirit of Christmas Fair website. Tickets purchased in advance are £18 adult/ £10.50 child (13 and over) and at the door prices are £20 adult/ £11.50 child. Children 12 and under are free. The Spirit of Christmas Fair will take place at Olympia Grand Hall, Olympia Exhibition Centre in West Kensington. You can reach Olympia on the Tube since it conveniently has a station right at the exhibition centre.
(Images courtesy The Spirit of Christmas Fair)