The market will run from 1pm to 5pm on Saturday 28th November, offering visitors the chance to pick up original artwork, prints and illustrations, handmade jewellery, crafts, and one-off creations made by independent creatives from the LGBTQ+ community
Waltham Forest Pride Collective is bringing a new festive event to Walthamstow Trades Hall on Saturday 28th November 2026, with a Queer Christmas Market dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ artists, makers and independent businesses from across the borough and beyond.
The market will run from 1pm to 5pm, offering visitors the chance to discover unique Christmas gifts, and support independent creatives.
From original artwork, prints and illustrations to handmade jewellery, crafts, independent publications and one-off creations, organisers believe the event will be the first market of its kind in Waltham Forest dedicated specifically to queer artists and makers.
Alongside the stalls, visitors can enjoy festive decorations, Christmas carol singing, seasonal drinks served by Trades Hall and activities for children.
Waltham Forest Pride Collective told the Echo: “Waltham Forest has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community and a wealth of creative talent. We wanted to bring people together, give queer artists and independent businesses a platform, and create a festive event where everyone feels welcome.
“It’s about supporting local creatives, discovering something different for Christmas and celebrating the community around us.”
The festivities will continue into the evening with the Y2K Xmas Afterparty, running from 8pm until 1am at Walthamstow Trades Hall. Inspired by the sounds and unapologetic energy of the early 2000s, the line-up features the iconic performers A Man To Pet, Sarjana, Die Lemma and Iris Glamorous, alongside tech house DJs Bradley Skeng and Suni Side Up.
Profits from the event will be donated to Stonewall Housing, which supports LGBTQ+ people experiencing homelessness and housing insecurity.
Waltham Forest Pride Collective is inviting queer artists, makers, designers and independent businesses to apply for a stall at the market. Spaces are limited, and the organisers are encouraging interested creatives to apply early.
The Queer Christmas Market takes place on Saturday 28th November, 1pm–5pm, at Walthamstow Trades Hall, E17 4RQ. Entry costs £1.50, with free admission for children under twelve and Trades Hall members
The Y2K Xmas Party follows at the same venue from 8pm to 1am. Separate tickets are available for the market (here) and party (here)
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