The long-awaited Christmas markets will make their return to Barnsley next weekend, and this year Barnsley Council is making room for local charities to have stalls. 

The market will be located at Peninstone Market Barn on 7 December.

The event is giving charities the chance to have stalls alongside regular traders, aiming to provide them with the opportunity to reach wider audiences. 

This allows visitors to snap up unique gifts and stock on presents in the lead up to Christmas, whilst also supporting charities that make huge differences to the Barnsley community.

Councillor Robin Franklin, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “I’m pleased that so many charities and good causes have signed up for a stall at our first charity market in Penistone.”

The council are hoping the markets will bring more footfall to the town centre, which has been an increasing struggle for business over recent years, especially following the pandemic.

This is likely due to many high street stores closing, and smaller businesses finding it more viable to sell their products online.

Thus, the market is a great opportunity for smaller businesses and charities alike to gain traction.

Coun Robin Franklin said: “I hope everyone will take the chance to visit the market and see what gifts they can pick up as the countdown to Christmas continues.

“We want everyone to enjoy a pleasant shopping experience at our markets and our high streets and events like this aim to add to their appeal.”

The charity market, which adds to the calendar of events at Barnsley’s borough markets, will run from 8:30am to 2pm.

More information about the market is available here.