The holidays are right around the corner and as it’s gifting season, we’re all on the lookout for that unique gift to show our loved ones we care. Whether shopping at an indie artisan market or browsing the Christmas stalls, Chicago is filled with a host of unique festive markets this season. Keep reading for all the market info:
1. State Street Holiday Market
When: December 16-18
Head to the loop this weekend for the first ever State Street Holiday Market. With over 85 small businesses set up for shopping, the new addition to holiday markets in Chicago is every weekend in December! Located indoors, a welcome reprieve from the chilly weather, the holiday market is right on State Street, a celebrated shopping district in the Windy City. The weekend market is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Address: 35 S. State Street
2. The Randolph Street Market
When: December 15-16
Introducing your holiday gifting mecca, featuring everything from antiques, and jewelry, to quirky household items beloved treasures, and so much more. PS: Free gift wrapping is also available! The festive market features over 100 vendors, each selling unique items ranging from traditional Christmas decor to priceless antiques, innovative paintings, and a whole range of gourmet food options. You never know what you’re going to find here– from vintage blazers, to sparkling rings, and antique statues, this famed market has been around since 2003!
Grab tickets here.3. Chicago Vintage Festival
When: December 17-18, 2022
Pilsen Vintage is hosting a curated market this year selling handmade and vintage goods to the masses. From noon to 8 PM, take selfies with Santa and shop from over 50+ vendors. Adult tickets are $5 while kids get in free! PS: First the 50 guests to arrive get a free gift!
Address: The Cermak Center 629 W Cermak Rd, Chicago, IL 60616
4. The Renegade Craft Fair
When: December 17-18th
Head to Morgan Manufacturing for a day of fun holiday shopping featuring emerging artists! With 170 independent artisans to browse, you’re sure to find something for everyone from handmade knits, to trendy accessories, custom ceramics and stained glass ornaments, this year’s fair will be held at the historic Morgan Manufacturing in the West Loop.
Address: 401 N Morgan St Suite #100, Chicago, IL 60642
5. Windy City Made
When: December 18, 2022
This inaugural holiday market is sure to be fun-filled with 50+ Chicago artisans, vintage shops, and more– perfect for finding a seasonal gift! From 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. shop to your heart’s content at the historic former masonic temple, Stan Mansion, an exclusive private event venue known for hosting weddings, parties, and now holiday markets. Explore the amazing Art Deco ballrooms and enjoy a delicious holiday cocktail at this can’t-miss event.
Address: 2408 North Kedzie Boulevard Chicago, IL 60647
6. The Buddy Chicago Market
When: Every Tuesday and Saturday in December
The Chicago Cultural Center opens its doors this holiday season for its annual local market, BUDDY Chicago. Located in the museum, visitors can browse a selection of curated finds from handmade puzzles, to festive prints, playful jewelry, and colorful trinkets. The market is all about promoting small manufacturers in the area. PS: If you can’t make it to the market itself, there’s a selection of items available via the online marketplace.
Address: 78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
7. Christkindlmarket
We couldn’t not include the worlds 3rd best Christmas market on the list! During the winter months, annual traditions like Christkindlmarkt become our shining lights in times of darkness, early nightfall, and chilly temperatures. As Chicago’s notorious winter sweeps through the city the festive season counters it with jubilance and cheer. Which made the absence of sipping Glühwein in Daley Plaza during the pandemic all the harder to swallow.
But worry not, Chicago’s German-inspired annual Christmas market is just around the corner after making a much-needed return last winter! The 26th edition of the beloved Christmas market will take over three locations across town.
Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
8. Winter Wonderland at Gallagher Way
If you want to avoid the crowds that flock to Christkindlmarket, why not try out the smaller selection of holiday booths at Gallagher Way? Filled with the same wares as the larger German-inspired shops, treats, and gifts, but this Winter Wonderland also features plenty of adventure– like the ice bumper cars!
Address: 3635 N. Clark St. Chicago, IL 60613
9. The Andersonville Winter Market
When: December 2-4
Welcome the holidays in Andersonville-style as the local neighborhood transforms into a Swedish market. Embrace the holidays in Andersonville with a mug of mulled wine, and a bevy of artisan-made selections. The second-annual market is an already beloved tradition bringing the area’s Swedish roots to the forefront of the holiday season. Shop hand poured candles at Edgewater Candles, ceramics from Chelsea Dubick Art & Design, and so many other dedicated artisans.
Address: 1500 W Catalpa Ave. Chicago, IL 60640
10. One of a Kind Holiday Show
When: December 1-4
Shop one-of-a-kind finds at the One of a Kind Holiday Show this season. Filled with over 600+ booths, the ultra-festive pop-up supports the Chicago creative community and offers unique finds from hand-painted glazed pottery, gorgeous jewelry, silky finds, and hp so much more.
Grab your ticket here! For $15, you get access to all four days. Plus, a portion of all ticket sales benefits the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
Address: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654