What’s on in Suffolk November 2019

Remember, remember…hello November! It’s COLD! The weather has well and truly turned and it’s time to snuggle up in oversized coats, grab a hot chocolate and watch the fireworks. This month there are fashion events, festive beginnings and even a couple of festivals going on. Keep reading to find out what’s on in Suffolk in November 2019.

1^st November – Drag Me To Hell, Ipswich

Head to Cult Bar for this spooky Halloween Party raising funds for Suffolk Pride 2020. There will be a live band, cocktail on arrival and prize for the best dressed!

1st November – 23rd December – Blackthorpe Barns

Blackthorpe Barns in Rougham, near Bury St Edmunds, is back for the festive season! If you’re ready to get in the Christmas spirit then head along for a huge selection of decorations, gifts from local makers, Christmas trees and Santa’s Grotto. There’s also a fab cafe there too. For more info, check out last year’s blog post.

2^nd-3^rd November – Slow Living Market, Orford

Head to Orford Town Hall to pick up items from local makers and artisans. Many of us are looking at what we’re purchasing and trying to make better choices, and this market can help to point you in the right direction. Find out how everything is made, chat to the makers and pick up gifts ready for Christmas.

8^th November – Instagram for Business Workshops, Ipswich

We’re running the Instagram for Business Workshops again! Andy and I will be hosting the Instagram for Business Workshops at The Studio on St Peter’s Street in Ipswich. If you’d like to learn how to reach your target customers on Instagram and make it work for your business, then come along to our fun, informal workshop. Plus, there’s cake! We’ll show you how to take high quality Instagram photos, research hashtags, schedule content and analyse the results.

The first session will be between 1pm-3pm and the second from 6:30pm-8:30pm. If you’d like to find out more, feel free to ask me any questions via email.

14th November – Winter Fashion Show

Ipswich Library will be hosting a Winter Fashion Show with local boutiques taking to the runway. Tickets are £7 and include a glass of Prosecco.

15^th – 17^th November – Lavenham Literary Festival

The popular literary festival returns with big names including Ian McEwan and Pam Ayres. There is also a creative writing workshop and discussion about how to get published. To see the full line up, head to the website. 

16^th November – Fram Makers Market

Come along and shop local at the Fram Makers Market. If you’re looking for unique gifts or a little treat for yourself, have a browse! There will be prints, jewellery, candles, macramé, ceramics, embroidery and more. The event will run from 10am-3pm at the Framlingham Unitarian Meeting House.

16^th November – Flipside Festival, Henham Park Barns

Flipside Festival takes up residence in a new home this year – Henham Park Barns on the Latitude site. Expect a day of talks, performances, films, music and much more. Expect a day of culture, inspiration and creativity. Click here for the full line up.

21^st – 24^th November – Bury St Edmunds Christmas Fayre

The biggest Christmas Fayre in the county returns, even bigger and better than ever. Every part of the town has been turned into a winter wonderland, packed full of stalls, stages and activities. From local makers in the Unitarian Meeting House to a cookery theatre in the Cathedral Courtyard, there’s plenty to explore. See reindeer, watch live music, and pop into the many independent stores that will be open extra hours for the fayre. I’ve even heard a rumour that Father Christmas may appear…

22^nd -24^th November – Presents Galore, Newmarket

This annual gift extravaganza will take place for three days at the Rowley Mile Racecourse in Newmarket. You’ll have your Christmas presents all wrapped up by the time you leave this huge fair! Shop for all members of your family, for friends, partners and even your pets. Chocolates, candles and clothing, homewares, hairbands and hats – there really is something for everyone!

I’m looking forward to going along to start (and maybe even finish) my shopping and carry on my mission to buy all my Christmas gifts from independent businesses again. Find out more and book your tickets here.

23^rd November – Wild Saturdays: Lantern Making & Twilight Walk, Brandon Country Park

Children can make a candle lantern from willow and paper, ready for a twilight walk through Brandon Country Park. The event is suitable for children 5+.

23^rd November – 8^th December – Illuminated Garden Trail, Helmingham Hall

Helmingham Hall will be transformed with thousands of twinkling lights to create a magical, festive spectacular. Enjoy mulled wine, toast marshmallows over firepits and browse the Stables Shops before exploring the winter wonderland in the stunning, glistening gardens.

Make sure you pop in to the Thrive Store to pick up unique Christmas gifts from local makers! #shoplocal

29^th November – Black Friday, Easton Farm Park

Kids go free at Easton Farm Park on Black Friday! Enjoy a great day out at this traditional, family friendly farm.

30^th November – 1^st December – Christmas at Africa Alive!

Santa has arrived at Africa Alive! Head to the zoo for Christmas crafts, animal handling and meeting Santa for a gift.

30^th November – 1^st December – Festive Fun Weekend at RSPB Minsmere

There will be festive food and drink and expert advice waiting at the Festive Fun Weekend at the RSPB. Spot some winter wildlife on the nature trails and then shop for wild gifts in the on site shop.