If you’re gearing up for holiday shopping and want to find unique gifts that support small local businesses, there’s no better place than a maker’s market or craft fair. These shopping experiences bring a special intimacy to finding gifts and have everything from gourmet baked goods to fine art. So, we made a list and checked it twice. These winter maker’s fairs in Chicago will surely delight.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out all the holiday-themed pop-ups happening in Chicago as well!
One of a Kind Holiday Show
222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654
WHEN: Dec. 2-5
Cheers to the 20th anniversary of this one-of-a-kind shopping experience, returning in person after a year’s hiatus. The One of a Kind Holiday Show brings together a creative community of 400 talented artists, makers, and designers for four days in the heart of the city in the Merchandise Mart.
Find unique gifts from ceramics, pet products, and jewelry to paintings, photography, and furniture. Enjoy food and drinks, live music, fashion shows, and talk to the makers themselves! The show will donate a portion of all ticket sales to the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
Midwinter Holiday Market
1757 N Kimball Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
WHEN: Dec. 4
Kimball Arts Center and Ørkenoy are celebrating the holidays and the amazing work of local artists and makers. There will be great music from DJ Melby to get you groovin’ and delicious food, beer, hot apple cider, and batched cocktails from Ørkenoy all day long.
Take a peek at the spaces of the Kimball Arts creative community and check out the unique vendors and artists who just might have that perfect White Elephant gift.
Uprising Holiday Market
1804-06 W 103rd St, Chicago, IL 60643
WHEN: Dec. 4
The Uprising Holiday Market returns for the season at RMH Design and Clothing Boutique. Led by the Beverly Area Arts Alliance, the market will be selling goods from more than 20 local makers and artisans.
There will be music by DJ Ruta Spencer and festive drinks from Steering Cocktails, as well as Beverly Phono Mart and Made Artisan Collaborative. In celebration of the 5th anniversary, the Alliance will also have special limited edition prints of The Beverly Mural.
Underground Art Market
1840 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60622
WHEN: Dec. 5
Salvage One is an antique furniture store and event space known for its artsy vintage vibes, making it the perfect spot for Underground Art Market. The annual holiday pop-up market hosts more than 70 artists and vendors as well as makers supporting charitable causes.
Featuring recycled art, functional art, wellness products, green initiatives, and more, the market has many unique products to offer. Food and drink will be on sale on-site as well. Therefore, come to the Underground Art Market this year if you’re looking for one of the most individualistic maker’s fairs in Chicago for your holiday shopping!
Handmade Market
1035 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
WHEN: Dec. 11
The Handmade Market sells everything from unique jewelry to knitted goods, paper crafts, and more. There are more than 30 talented and creative artists and vendors to check out.
The market celebrates makers and their passions for creating, encouraging patrons to meet and connect with them. That’s easy when the event is at the Empty Bottle, where you can grab a drink or two while you shop!
Chicago Artisan Market
401 N Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60642
WHEN: Dec. 12
The Chicago Artisan Market features the best of Chicago and the Midwest’s small businesses in food, fashion, home, and art. The indoor market has rotating events operating in three locations: Fulton Market, Ravenswood, and Oak Brook. All the markets share the mission to help small local businesses thrive.
Candles, planters, gourmet foods, jewelry, and more are showcased and sold at the markets. Support local and find something special for someone on your list or yourself!
Featured Image Credit: One of a Kind Holiday Show