That time of year: Very merry markets

Why trawl malls when there are better options

Christmas is upon us. This means every shop between Cape Agulhas and Tweebuffelsmeteenskootmorsdood-geskietfontein will be spewing tinsel, and rotund men with a fondness for beards and children.

The abundance of Christmas spirit in otherwise confined spaces is enough to send the ghost of Harry Houdini into claustrophobic shock.

For those who prefer to do their Christmas shopping unburdened by glass doors and surly shop assistants, the Christmas market offers a pleasant, claustrophobia-free experience.

These are some worth checking out:

Kamers Vol Geskenke

Started more than 10 years ago by an enterprising group of friends, Kamers Vol Geskenke has grown into one of the largest Christmas markets in the country.

''Kamers is far from just a Christmas market. It is a carefully curated showcase of this country's best handcrafted creativity where all of our products are gift-wrapped with delicious food, wine, and music," said KVG co-owner and creative director Wanda du Toit.

The success of KVG is such that, since its inception, it has gone on to transcend the festive season and now hosts a number of different events throughout the year in various locales. The market has many different features.

''The latest addition to our concept is an art exhibition but we also have fashion, craft, design, artisanal food and live music. Many of our exhibitors are launching their latest ranges this year," said Du Toit.

• This year the final stop of the KVG road trip will be in Irene, Pretoria, at the Open Window design school from December 2-7. Tickets range from R50-R75. For more information visit www.kamersvol.com

The Parkview Charity Christmas Market

Hollywood folklore insists the festive season is a time for giving, and few things are better than shopping for a good cause under the influence of oysters and champagne.

Now in its eighth year, the Parkview Charity Christmas Market brings together live entertainment, craft food, gifts and more than 3000 oysters in the service of the underprivileged.

''We are entirely staffed by volunteers and all the proceeds go to charity," said Elna Blom, one of the market's organisers.

The market also offers a host of distractions for children, who would otherwise become quickly bored with bouncing from stall to stall. These include jumping castles and arts and crafts.

''Our market has a strong focus on community and family so it's a great way for people to get out of the house and have some family fun," said Blom.

• The PCCM is on from November 28 to 30 at George Hay Park in Parkview. For more information contact www.nicarela.org.za or call 082-445-3525.

Jozi Food Market

Christmas is the one time of year when gorging on festive delights is not recommended but required.

Located at Pirates Rugby Club in Greenside, the Jozi Food Market is purpose- built to ensure you loosen your belt by indulging in the finest ingredients.

All the food on offer is locally sourced and fresher than the Prince of Bel Air.

Based at a sports club, the JFM is also aware that the festive season is when peak sporting traffic occurs and has catered to sports fanatics accordingly.

• The JFM is open on Saturdays from 8.30am to 1.30pm at Pirates Sports Club. For more information contact 083-532-2992 or visit its Facebook page at www.facebook.com/JoziRealFoodMarket