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 one of the Chicago Christmas markets, this city has a ton of unique festive markets. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite happening this season!
1. State Street Holiday Market
Head to the loop this weekend for the State Street Holiday Market. With over 85 small businesses set up for shopping, the new addition to Chicago Christmas markets is every weekend in December! Located indoors, a welcome reprieve from the chilly weather, the holiday market is 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.
Dates: November 19—December 18, Fridays—Sundays
Address: 35 S. State Street, Chicago, IL 60603
2. The Renegade Craft Fair
Head to Morgan Manufacturing for a day of fun holiday shopping featuring emerging artists! With 170 independent artisans to browse, you will 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.
Shop from over 170 curated artists at the Renegade Chicago! Support local and national small businesses while shopping for creative goods and handmade gifts for you and yours
Dates: December
Address: 401 N Morgan St Suite #100, Chicago, IL 60642
3. Holiday Mini Market
Save the date for one of the best Chicago Christmas Markets! The Holiday Mini Market is hosted by Mata Traders, just a few blocks from Clark Street in Andersonville! A handful of Chicago area makers will gather together to bring you various giftable items for your holiday shopping. Local Makers include Tori Grace Outfitters, Glow in the Dark Ministries, Las Sirenitas Bodega y Gifts, Mata Traders, and more!
Dates: December
Address: 5112 N. Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
4. Christkindlmarket
We, of course, had to include the world one of the best Chicago Christmas markets on the list! During winter, 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.
Date: November 17—December 24
Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
5. Winter Wonderland at Gallagher Way
If you want to avoid the crowds that flock to Christkindlmarket, why not try out one of the smaller Chicago Christmas markets with the same selection? The holiday booths at Gallagher Way are 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!
Dates: November 17—December 31
Address: 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60613
6. Chicago Artisan Market
The Chicago Artisan Market® features the Midwest’s best in food, fashion, home goods, and art. Their vendors are small businesses demonstrating the City’s rich history as a “city that works.” The Chicago Artisan Market showcases the sheer ingenuity and passion of small businesses around Chicago.
Dates: December 16—17
Address: 401 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60642