Christmas craft markets in Japan

Is it just me, or have Christmas Craft Markets become a thing in Japan in recent years? The number of places that have a Christmas craft market in my own prefecture have increased exponentially in the last five years.

I've been writing about events in Saitama Prefecture, where I live, for about 20 years. Until around 2020, i rarely came a Christmas craft market event. In 2020, there were a few, perhaps influenced by the pandemic, but then over the next few years the number of craft markets just kept increasing. Its not a bad thing at all, I just find it very interesting.

i went along to one today, with my family. At the one we attended there was a big focus on workshops. Its a really nice idea as it gives children, and people in general, the opportunity to make their own Christmas presents. Theres something very special about getting a nice homemade present from a child. This market also sold handmade goods and some snacks, tea and coffee too.

Have you been to a Christmas Craft Market in Japan? What did you think?