Making Christmas Memories
by: BTM - Sat, 07 Nov 2026
Handmade gifts, music and childhood traditions come together at Centraal Club’s Christmas Market, where Bahrain’s independent makers and family fun take centre stage this November.
Christmas shopping will come with festive music, live cooking and support for independent businesses when the Christmas Market at Centraal takes place on Saturday, November 14. Running from 3pm to 8pm at Centraal Club in Hamala, opposite Al Liwan, the event promises an afternoon of handmade discoveries and festive activities under the theme Merry and Made!
For organiser Lynn Thorvilson, the starting point was recognising the value of the people behind small businesses. She explains: "Small businesses and independent makers are critical to innovation as well as creating and sustaining culture. They are the cornerstone of all businesses. Every company has to start somewhere!"
After what she describes as an extremely difficult year, she and her best friend wanted to create an opportunity for talented, creative people to thrive. She adds: "We are doing this for no monetary gain, just supporting people who have become friends."
The idea took shape over coffee at Chef by Steve McGowan at Centraal Club. Impressed by the comfortable atmosphere, the pair asked Mr. McGowan whether the venue might consider hosting a pop-up market. He introduced them to club manager Charlotte Holmager and, within six minutes, plans for a Christmas market were under way.
That collaborative spirit has continued throughout the preparations. Vendors have contributed contacts, ideas and practical support, with a branding and design professional among them producing the event’s promotional materials. Centraal Club has also played a central role in bringing everything together.
Ms. Thorvilson says: "Centraal Club has been unbelievably supportive and the best partner we could have asked for."
Made With Care
The market’s selection brings together Bahraini vendors and expatriates from around the world. Some were already known to the organisers, while others were discovered through Instagram, including makers who had never exhibited at a market before.
Visitors can browse handcrafted gifts, original designs and baked treats for their homes, families and friends. Careful selection has ensured that no two vendors will sell the same types of items, giving each business its own space to shine and shoppers a varied choice.
The festive programme will include performances by the Manama Singers and the British School of Bahrain’s Winter Voices choir, alongside a live cooking area by Mr. McGowan. Santa will also be available for photographs, with adults encouraged to join in alongside children, families and groups of friends.
Memories To Share
One of the market’s most personal touches draws on Ms. Thorvilson’s childhood in Minnesota. Each Christmas, her parents took the family to downtown Minneapolis to see the decorations and visit the elaborate festive display at Dayton’s Department Store.
The outing ended with a visit to Santa and the Children’s Christmas Store, where choosing presents for her parents required much deliberation. A freshly baked gingerbread man was another treasured part of the tradition.
She recalls: "I wanted this experience for everyone here. It’s still a very cherished memory for me from over 50 years ago!"
At Centraal, a dedicated Children’s Christmas Store will give young visitors the opportunity to choose affordable gifts for family and friends, with gift wrapping included.
There will also be Christmas games with prizes, football games on the pitch sponsored by 24N Sports Academy and netball games sponsored by Conquer, giving children plenty to enjoy alongside the shopping and performances.
For further information, WhatsApp Ms. Thorvilson on 3997 9747.
Tags #btm updates #local makers market bahrain #christmas activities for kids bahrain #christmas market november 14 bahrain #christmas events bahrain 2026 #handmade gifts bahrain #christmas shopping bahrain #christmas market hamala bahrain #centraal club christmas market #christmas market bahrain 2026
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November 2026
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