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. Chicago Vintage Festival
Chicago Vintage Festival promotes sustainable living and reduces textile waste in landfills. We aim to support small businesses by encouraging local shopping and bridging financial gaps. Through our events, we provide opportunities for the community to learn about sustainable practices and participate in workshops that promote environmentally friendly living.
Dates: November 25—26
Address: 401 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60642
2. 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 holiday markets in Chicago 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
3. 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
4. Windy City Made
The highly anticipated Windy City Made vintage and artist market will be returning to the historic Stan Mansion in Logan Square this holiday season. One of the best Chicago Christmas markets filled with 70+ Chicago artisans, vintage shops, and more—it’s the perfect place 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, now an exclusive private event venue known for hosting weddings, parties, and holiday markets. Explore the fantastic Art Deco ballrooms and enjoy a delicious holiday cocktail at this can’t-miss event.
Address: 2408 North Kedzie Boulevard, Chicago, IL 60647
5. 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
6. 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!
Dates: November 17—December 31
Address: 3635 N. Clark St., Chicago, IL 60613
7. One of a Kind Holiday Show
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 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.
Dates: December 7—10
Address: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654
8. Winter Walk on Wilson
The Uptown Chamber of Commerce hosts their 9th Annual Winter Walk on Wilson from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. This free event features sweet treats, warm drinks, menu samples from local Uptown businesses and organizations, live holiday music along the Wilson and Broadway commercial corridors, a pop-up holiday market, and photo ops with Uptown’s own Panda Claus!
Dates: Friday, December 1
Address: 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654
9. Andersonville Winter Market
Head to Andersonville for this annual winter market event! More than 20 local artisans and companies will sell their products along Catalpa Avenue between Clark Street and Ashland Avenue. Daily entertainment will also be scheduled, including photo opportunities with Santa—sip on Simon’s Tavern’s famous glögg or much on Downstate Donuts potato-based pastries.