By Kelly Maue
‘Tis the season to spread some holiday cheer. One way to do that is by giving gifts.
We’ve compiled a list of local holiday markets to make shopping easier. Skip the mall and limit those online purchases. Support artists and makers while finding truly special gifts – and have a little fun at the same time.
The St. Margaret of Scotland (SMOS) Parish Holiday Market returns to the Shaw neighborhood Friday, November 20. This event features sipping, snacks, and shopping, with an incredible lineup of local vendors. Ticket proceeds benefit the SMOS Dragon Library.
Tower Grove Park presents Makers in the Garden on November 20. Find food trucks, music, drinks, and giftable goods from more than 25 local makers. Shop both indoors at the Piper Palm House and outdoors in the Director’s Garden.
Central West End’s favorite garden center hosts a beautiful indoor market November 21. The Studio Artists Shop at Bowood Farms offers botanical compositions, ceramics, knitted goods, fine art, and more.
The Bookish Gift Market returns to the City Foundry November 21. Find the most giftable gifts – and plenty of books.
The Kirkwood Farmers Market (The Summit All Seasons Market) transforms into a winter wonderland beginning November 21. Festive offerings include premium sweets, local staples, a gingerbread shoppe, holiday décor, greenery, gifts, and fresh-cut trees.
Modeled after open-air German Christmas markets, Christkindlmarkt returns to downtown Belleville, Illinois. On weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas, enjoy baked goods, roasted nuts, and mulled wine while shopping for European and handmade items. Family fun awaits with meet-and-greets with Santa, a petting zoo, and horse-drawn trolley rides.
Christmas Traditions in St. Charles takes place during the same time frame. On weekends between November 27 and December 24, historic Main Street transforms into a classic Christmas village. Carolers, historical figures, and festive shopping make for a memorable holiday experience.
City Foundry in Midtown hosts Tinsel Town Holiday Market. Starting November 28, Small Business Saturday, this outdoor market continues for the next three Saturdays. Live music, roasted chestnuts, and festive lighting set the scene for over 60 local vendors.
The Goshen Coffee Holiday Market calls Soulard home. Visit this festive community on November 28 for handmade goods, seasonal treats, fresh coffee, and more.
Two events return to Daggett Avenue in the historic Hill neighborhood. First, enjoy artisan makers, vendors, and Christmas karaoke at the Antique Market Christmas Extravaganza on December 2. More fun is slated for December 6 with The Hill Christmas Night Market. This afternoon-to-evening pop-up market features local makers and vintage vendors.
The Foundry Art Centre’s Merry Makers Market in St. Charles runs for two days. On December 4 & 5, peruse over two dozen regional makers, designers, artists, and their works. The market also features a kids-only “mini market” for young shoppers.
St. Clair Square in Fairview Heights, Illinois, welcomes the Saint Louis Winter Wonderland Craft and Vendor Market. On December 4-6, local independent merchants will offer a wide variety of wares, including jewelry, crafts, décor, fashion, artwork, food, and much more.
The Maplewood Christmas Tree Walk kicks off December 4 with caroling, Santa, and the lighting of the town Christmas tree. Festivities continue with merchant open houses, carriage rides, and carolers.
Hermann’s Stone Hill Winery holds its 34th annual Kristkindle Markt December 5 & 6. The heated Sherry House will host 28 vendors, hand-crafted goods, holiday treats, and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Timothy Lutheran Church hosts its annual neighborhood Christmas market on December 5. Weihnachtsmarkt in South St. Louis offers festive food, fellowship, and holiday shopping.
The Babes in Business Market on December 6 is a festive, family-friendly afternoon of shopping, community, and holiday fun with unique products and gifts. This indoor boutique bazaar features 20+ female-owned businesses.
Check out an outdoor festive marketplace Dec 11-13. The Tower Grove Holiday Market and its Frosted Pop-Up Market feature an impressive group of local artists, handmade crafts, and seasonal food.
The Rockwell Beer Garden Holiday Market in St. Louis Hills is an outdoor gathering of local farmers, makers, artisans, and food producers. Visit on December 13 for a day of holiday cheer, complete with a visit from Santa.
The most hilarious market in town will surely be the 4 Hands Ha Ha Holiday Bazaar on December 13. Shop your favorite vendors and stay for the stand-up and comedy showcase.
Visit one or more local markets this holiday season! It’s a way to support local artists and makers while having a great shopping experience.
