In little over a month it’ll be Christmas Day. If the thought of pounding the high street, or computer keyboard, in search of that elusive festive gift fills you with dread then fear not folks, Preston has come up trumps this December with some fantastic Christmas craft and vintage fairs being held across the city.

The Riverside Vintage Fair will be keeping the Continental cosy with mulled wine, mince pies and an array of vintage and handmade stalls spread across the venue space and snug. Join them for some festive fun and live music between 12pm – 5pm on Sunday 1^st December 2013.

The team behind Crafty Vintage promise a warm festive welcome at Brockholes Nature Reserve on Saturday 30^th November and Sunday 1^st December 2013. Over one hundred creative folk from across the UK will be descending on the Visitors Centre bringing an array of vintage and retro wares and handmade crafts. If you’re feeling peckish there’ll be artisan foods in the courtyard and a pop up cocktail bar courtesy of Lofty’s. All this plus retro singers, dancers, magicians and free face painting. Starts at 11am and runs through to 5pm, you’ll want to make a day of it.

Pick up some unique, locally produced and handmade Christmas gifts at the Love Craft fair in Hoghton Tower’s Great Barn on Sunday 8^th December 2013. There’ll be festive pony rides throughout the day. Whilst you are there visit one of Lancashire’s finest stately homes all dressed up for Christmas. There’ll be tours throughout the day with a family friendly tour at 1:30pm. The craft fair runs from 10am – 3pm.

If you are heading to towns afar on the choo choo then stop off at the Christmas Market on Preston Railway Station. Yes you read it correctly, Dolly Dazzler will be hosting a market either side of the main ramp in the centre of the station and in the waiting room. On Saturday 14^th December 2013 you’ll discover fabulous mix of stalls selling beautiful Christmas gifts, jewellery, bags, fabric and paper crafts, homewares and a selection of vintage fashion and accessories. The market runs from 9am – 5pm. Sounds like just the ticket!

Dolly Dazzler will also be hosting a Vintage Jingle Bell Fete at Christ Church Hall on Victoria Road in Fulwood on Sunday 15th December. There will be home wares, vintage fashion, gifts and bespoke jewellery. 10.30am – 3pm.