A Touch of Christmas at Le Jolly Market

What was the last thing you did for play or fun?

Last night we stepped into a little pocket of festive magic at Le Jolly Market in Sydney, and it couldn’t have felt more Christmassy if it tried. We loved it so much last year that we made a point of returning this Christmas, in its new home at the Rocks, beside Circular Quay. Twinkling lights, Christmas decorations and stalls filled with candles, gifts and beautiful handmade decorations set the scene from the moment we arrived.

The air was full of music, with live performances creating a warm, joyful atmosphere that encouraged you to slow down, wander, and soak it all in. Food stalls dotted the market, offering tempting bites while people mingled, laughed and embraced the spirit of the season.

One highlight for us was eating raclette, something that’s a real tradition for us back home. There was something comforting and nostalgic about enjoying it here, melted cheese, sautéed potatoes – simple food and familiar flavours, all adding to that sense of Christmas away from home.

The wine didn’t disappoint either. French and Italian wines flowed freely (at a price) perfectly suited to a summer evening, alongside the ever-popular mulled wine, a festive classic that somehow feels right even in Sydney. It was the kind of place where you lose track of time, glass in hand, music playing, and Christmas quietly announcing its arrival.

Le Jolly Market delivered charm, flavour and festive cheer in equal measure, a lovely reminder that Christmas spirit can be found anywhere when it’s done this well.