Whalley Artisan Market Returns to the Ribble Valley for 2026
- Crafty Vintage
- Jan 27
- 3 min read
Whalley Artisan Market is returning for 2026 with a new programme of monthly events, building on what makes the village such a natural home for independent makers, small producers and creative businesses.
Set in the heart of the Ribble Valley, the market brings together people who care about what they make with people who care about where they shop. It is a place to discover emerging talent, support small businesses and spend time in a village that values independence, culture and community. Market days feel part of Whalley rather than something dropped in, and that is why they continue to draw hundreds of visitors into the village.
Produced by Crafty Vintage, the market will take place on the last Sunday of every month from March 2026, staying true to the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that traders and visitors respond to, while introducing a fresh calendar of dates for the year ahead.
Whalley Artisan Market 2026 Dates
Whalley Artisan Market will run throughout 2026, with a special festive weekend to close the year:
Sunday 29 March 2026
Sunday 26 April 2026
Sunday 31 May 2026
Sunday 28 June 2026
Sunday 26 July 2026
Sunday 30 August 2026
Sunday 27 September 2026
Sunday 25 October 2026
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026 – Christmas Weekend Artisan Market
A Market That Supports Stallholders and Emerging Talent
At its core, Whalley Artisan Market is about creating meaningful trading opportunities. It is a market where stallholders are given space to grow, test ideas and build genuine relationships with customers.
Alongside established artisan businesses, the market actively welcomes new makers, creative start ups and emerging talent, offering a supportive environment in a destination village where visitors come ready to browse, buy and engage. Many traders return month after month, not just for sales, but for the sense of community and continuity the market creates.
For stallholders, Whalley offers:
A loyal and engaged audience
A strong independent shopping culture
A carefully balanced trader mix
A welcoming platform for new ideas and creative businesses
Celebrating the Culture of Whalley and the Ribble Valley
Market days in Whalley naturally extend beyond the stalls. Visitors explore the village’s independent boutiques, stop off at local bars, pubs and eateries, and make the most of the surrounding riverside and countryside walks that make Whalley such a popular destination.
This blend of shopping, food, drink and outdoor space turns each market into a full family day out, appealing to locals, regular visitors and those discovering the Ribble Valley for the first time. The market helps animate the village while celebrating the independent spirit and creative culture that already exists.
What You Can Expect at Whalley Artisan Market
Each month will feature a thoughtfully curated mix of:
Handmade crafts and artisan products
Independent makers and designers
Local food and drink producers
Creative start ups and emerging brands
Seasonal and themed traders across the year
The emphasis is always on originality, quality and supporting people who take pride in what they do.
Christmas Weekend Artisan Market
To close the year, Whalley Artisan Market will expand into a two day Christmas weekend market, taking place on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November 2026.
This festive edition will feature an extended line up of traders offering Christmas gifts, seasonal food and drink, handmade decorations and unique present ideas. With more time to explore both the market and the village, it is designed to become a highlight of the Ribble Valley’s festive calendar for visitors and traders alike.
Trader Applications Now Open
Applications are now open for Whalley Artisan Market 2026.
The market is ideal for makers, producers and independent businesses looking to trade in a supportive, well attended and culturally rich Ribble Valley location, whether launching something new or building a regular presence.
Apply or find out more at:www.craftyvintage.com/traders
Produced by Crafty Vintage
Crafty Vintage has been producing artisan markets, vintage fairs and large scale events across the North West for over 15 years, with a strong focus on supporting independent traders, creative talent and local places. Whalley Artisan Market returns in 2026 with a fresh calendar of dates, a strong community of stallholders and a festive Christmas weekend to finish the year.
Save the dates and we will see you in Whalley. x
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