THERE is no better way to spread Christmas cheer and get in the festive spirit than heading to a Christmas fair or Market.

This year, Dorset has a variety of Fairs and Markets available for everyone.

Whether you are a lover of Christmas food, a tombola enthusiast, or just have an appreciation for crafts, there is something for everyone this Christmas.

1. Bournemouth Christmas Market: This annual event has returned to the town square, brimming with a plethora of food, drink and homemade craft stalls.

The hugely popular Alpine Lodge has also returned, offering a cosy space to snuggle up with a mug of mulled wine.

An entertainment hub in the square will also be hosting plenty of festive entertainers, such as carol singers and Christmas performers.

The Market is taking place until January 1 2020, open from 10am daily.

It will not be open on Christmas Day.

2. Victorian Christmas Fayre: Swannery Lake, Weymouth will be going back in time with their Victorian Christmas Fayre. There will be a handmade craft market, mini fairground rides and stalls, stage entertainment, Victorian Gin bar and plenty more.

Festive favourites such as mulled wine and roasted chestnuts will also be available.

The Fair is taking place on December 14, 10am-9pm and December 15, 10am-4pm.

3. Friends of Hamworthy Park Christmas Fair

This Fair is the perfect opportunity to grab some stocking fillers due to the various stalls on offer.

You can get the 2020 FOHP calendar and special Hamworthy Park Christmas cards, as well as a range of other Christmas gifts, tombola and more.

Refreshments will also be available.

The fayre is from 12:30pm – 3pm on November 30 at St Michael's Church, Hamworthy.

4. Littledown Centre will be holding a spectacular Christmas Market on November 24 from 11am - 4pm.

In the main hall, studio 1 and studio 2 there will be 140 stalls selling a varied selection of items.

Festive entertainment will take place throughout the day, involving characters from Frozen and an appearance from the cast of the pantomime, Aladdin.

Father Christmas and his elves will be visiting the fair throughout the day.

There will also be face painting and stalls in the main reception.

Entry is £1 for those aged 16 and over, 50p for 6-15 years and free for 5s and under.

5. Athelhampton House: The Food and Drink Christmas Fair on November 23 and 24 will feature over 50 local producers selling distinctively Dorset and seasonal produce set in the gorgeous grounds of Athelhampton House.

On Sunday children will have the opportunity to meet Father Christmas.

Extra festivities also include local choirs and performers who will be present throughout the weekend.

The £3.50 ticket includes the Food Fair and entry to the Gardens and House. Children go free.

6. The Walled Garden Moreton: Get in the Christmas spirit at The Walled Garden Christmas Fair, a free event for all. They are hosting an afternoon full of festive fun, food and entertainment, which features Santa's Grotto, live music, crafts, raffle and more. The Fair is taking place on December 14 at The Walled Garden on Station Road, Moreton.

7. The Forest Inn Christmas Fair: Start your Christmas shopping with a trip to the free Fair at The Forest Inn near Ferndown. A glass of homemade mulled wine will greet you, as well as a mince pie and a goody bag full of Christmas treats.

There will be lots of stalls including vegan skincare, delicious Christmas biscuits, jewellery, books and craft stalls selling beautiful, handmade gifts.

Many of the traders also sell personalised gifts, making Christmas that extra bit special.

The fair on November 27 starts at 7pm and finishes at 10pm.

8. Durlston at Christmas: Durlston Country Park will be spreading Christmas cheer on November 30.

Local produce and gifts will be available. Visit Seventhwave and enjoy mulled wine and mince pies - the perfect excuse for last minute shopping. The event will take place from 11am to 4pm.

9. Symondsbury Estate Christmas Market: The coveted countryside destination in Dorset is hosting their annual Christmas Market on December 1. There will be stalls, shops, music, food and drink, mulled wine and more.

Free entry and parking. Dogs also welcome. The market will take place from 11am until 6pm.

10. Etsy Made Local: Dorset Team Christmas Fair: The Allendale Centre at Wimborne will be welcoming over 60 stalls to this eclectic, Christmas event. Everyone from vintage sellers, craft suppliers and budding artists who sell their wares on Etsy.com will be at the Fair, hoping to provide a variety of Christmas gifts.

There will be something for every budget and Christmas wish, with items such as candles, jewellery and original artwork available to purchase. Open from 10am – 4pm on Saturday, November 30 and Sunday December 1.