Rathkeale Christmas Fête 2023

The Rathkeale Christmas Fête is back! Walk through the gates of Rathkeale College this November and be welcomed by a diverse range of colourful stalls, the aroma of freshy cooked food and plenty of festive inspiration.

Now in its 20th year, this year's Fête promises to be our biggest ever and has become a must-do event on the Wairarapa spring calendar. Stallholders travel from around the North Island to sell their wares and offer Christmas shoppers loads of inspiration. From festive decorations, clothing, arts and crafts, to flowers, toys and plants – there is something for everyone.

Gourmet food is always a highlight at the Fête - think freshly made chicken or venison burgers, lamb & mint sausages, pulled pork wraps, curries, thai beef or roasted pumpkin salads, and the ever-popular berries & ice-cream - there is always a huge variety of flavours to tempt the taste buds. Devonshire Teas and home baking served in the Rathkeale Homestead rose garden is a time-honoured tradition while refreshing cold drinks can be sipped on as visitors listen to live music performed by students at various times throughout the day. The popular cake stall returns this year - but visitors are encouraged to get in early as the Christmas cakes, in particular, often sell out by midday.

The beauty of this Fête is that it’s a day out for the whole family. In addition to the 100+ stalls, there is plenty to entertain the children. This year, Zappo The Magician will perform two live shows during the day (10.30am and 12.30pm), while balloon twisting, face painting and candy floss will round out the fun.

This year’s Christmas Fête also coincides with the Wairarapa Garden Tour, a fundraiser for Pūkaha National Wildlife Centre. Visitors can explore the beautiful, expansive grounds of Rathkeale College including the school gardens designed by Alfred Buxton, the Greek Amphitheatre and the 3km eco-trail which weaves through large stands of native trees, including ancient kahikatea.

Eftpos is available, but it is recommended that visitors bring cash.

Koha/gold coin entry.
Rathkeale College is a five-minute drive north of Masterton in the Wairarapa.