Minnesota comes alive in the most magical way each holiday season, transforming city streets, historic landmarks, cozy boutiques, and open-air plazas into festive wonderlands. From European-inspired markets glowing with twinkling lights to small-town craft fairs brimming with handmade treasures, the state offers countless ways to shop local and celebrate.
Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind gifts, sipping something warm as you browse, or simply soaking in the joyful atmosphere, Minnesota’s 2025 holiday markets promise cheer, charm, and plenty of seasonal spirit.
Courtesy of Mall of America
Holidays at Mall of America
Mall of America, Bloomington
Mall of America becomes a holiday home filled with twinkling lights, festive music, and joyful moments—inviting families and friends to gather, celebrate, and create memories that shine long after the season. Plus, enjoy extended Mall and store hours through December.
Arboretum AppleHouse Holiday Boutique
Through Dec. 20, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Minnesota Landscape Arboretum AppleHouse, Victoria
The Arboretum’s AppleHouse transforms into a festive Holiday Boutique each season, offering seasonal decor, unique gifts, gourmet goodies, and Arboretum-grown apples and squash while supplies last. A beloved destination, the AppleHouse also features University of Minnesota apple varieties, pastries, frozen pies, fall produce, and select meats and ice cream from the U of M’s College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences.
Minneapolis Craft Market
Through Dec. 20 (Saturdays), Noon-5 p.m., Brühaven Craft Co., Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Craft Market returns to Brühaven Craft Co. this holiday season, hosting a series of weekend markets inside the brewery’s spacious Loring Park taproom. Shoppers can browse a rotating lineup of local makers, making it a perfect one-stop destination for holiday gifts and supporting Minnesota artists.
Nordic Village Winter Markets
Through Dec. 21 (Saturdays and Sundays), Four Seasons Minneapolis
The Winter Markets at Nordic Village bring a European-inspired shopping experience to Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis, featuring rotating local artists, makers, and creators each weekend. Guests can browse unique goods, enjoy The Lodge cabin-style bar, and shop Nordic Village accessories, with complimentary access and valet parking. Markets run Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21 and are weather dependent, with updates shared on the hotel’s Instagram.
Minneapolis Christkindl Market
Through Dec. 21, North Loop Green, Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Christkindl Market transforms North Loop Green into a festive German-style holiday village with twinkling lights, alpine huts, live entertainment, and Sunday Santa visits. Browse handcrafted gifts from 35-plus vendors and enjoy European favorites like Glühwein, Spätzle, Raclette, and Spanish honeys—a cozy seasonal stop for family and friends.
Courtesy of Minneapolis Christkindl Market
Field & Festival Holiday Market
Through Dec. 21 (Saturdays and Sundays), 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Wagner’s Garden Center, Minneapolis
Field & Festival at Wagner’s Garden Center brings together local farmers, foodies, and makers. With a constantly rotating vendor list, each visit offers something new—from fresh goods to handcrafted gifts. It’s a lively, ever-changing spot for seasonal shopping and supporting local creators.
Courtesy of Field & Festival/Photo by Darin Kamnetz
Dayton’s Holiday Market
Through Dec. 27 (Closed Nov. 27, Dec. 25-26), The Dayton’s Project, Minneapolis
The Dayton’s Holiday Market returns for its fifth year, featuring more than 100 local makers along with festive food and drink favorites like wild rice soup, hot popovers, ginger cookies, wine, and beer. Shoppers can also enjoy seasonal cocktails and mocktails at the Jingle Giles Holiday Bar by Earl Giles.
MN Christmas Market
Nov. 22, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Union Depot, St. Paul
Nov. 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., The Madison, Cottage Grove
Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Willow Brooke Farm, Red Wing
The MN Christmas Market is a $1-entry holiday pop-up celebrating its 10th year in 2025, showcasing Minnesota makers and supporting small businesses. This year, 5% of all sales will fund the new Small Business Spark Fund, providing one vendor at each event with business support, custom merch, a Grand Marais retreat, and a $5,000-plus prize.
Courtesy of MN Christmas Market
Friends of the Farmers Market Holiday Bazaar
Nov. 22 and Dec. 6, 13, and 20, Graham Park Building, Rochester
The Friends of the Farmers Market Holiday Bazaar brings festive, indoor holiday shopping to Rochester’s Graham Park, featuring handmade gifts from local makers, including pottery, jewelry, candles, and food items. Visitors can also stop by nearby Crawford Hall to browse fresh, locally grown produce at the farmers market.
Old St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar
Nov. 23 and Dec. 14, Machine Shop, Minneapolis
The Old St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar brings Minneapolis Craft Market to the historic Machine Shop, a bright and airy venue steps from the Mississippi River. Shoppers can browse a curated selection of local makers and holiday gifts in one of the city’s most beloved event spaces.
Holiday Shopping Blitz
Nov. 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., American Legion, Shakopee
The Shakopee Holiday Shopping Blitz brings together a wide variety of local makers and small businesses, offering handmade crafts, woodwork, metal art, jewelry, toys, décor, and more. Free admission and parking.
Palace Theatre Holiday Market
Nov. 28-29, Palace Theatre, St. Paul
The Palace Theatre Holiday Market returns over Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, featuring 50 local artists and vendors throughout the historic downtown venue. Shoppers can browse jewelry, paintings, mixed media art, candles, packaged foods, and more—plus enjoy the rare chance to shop from six featured artists set up right on the Palace Theatre stage. Grab a drink at the indoor bar and explore every corner, from the main floor to the balcony’s stunning views.
Utepils Brewing Holiday Market
Nov. 28-29, Utepils Brewing, Minneapolis
The Utepils Brewing Holiday Market kicks off the season with two days of festive shopping, live music, seasonal drinks, and holiday fun. Visitors can browse local vendors, enjoy special taproom releases, sample THC treats, and take advantage of big Black Friday deals. With beer poking, Krampus appearances, and plenty of cozy cheer, it’s a lively weekend celebration at one of Minneapolis’s favorite breweries.
Celebrating the Season in Excelsior
Nov. 28-Dec. 20, Excelsior
Excelsior’s Celebrating the Season is a month-long holiday celebration running Nov. 1–Dec. 15, with major festivities on Dec. 6, 13, and 20. The town comes alive with twinkling lights, festive streets, and small-town holiday charm, offering a full lineup of seasonal events—from Small Business Saturday and Black Friday weekend activities to photos with Santa, a tree lighting ceremony, charitable drives, free community meals, and special shopping experiences. Each weekend invites visitors to enjoy Excelsior’s warm holiday spirit while supporting local shops, restaurants, and community causes.
2025 European Christmas Market
Nov. 28-Dec. 21, Union Depot, St. Paul
The European Christmas Market in St. Paul brings the charm of traditional Christkindl markets from Germany and Austria to Minnesota. With free admission, this family-friendly event features handmade crafts, unique gifts, Glühwein, European-inspired foods, entertainment, and cultural activities.
Holiday Makers Market
Nov. 29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Community Event Center, Elk River
The Elk River Holiday Makers Market offers a festive day of shopping with a wide variety of one-of-a-kind goods from local artists, bakers, woodworkers, jewelers, crafters, and small farms. Shoppers will find everything from handmade jewelry, pottery, knitwear, toys, and seasonal décor to baked treats, sauces, honey, soaps, alpaca goods, and more.
Uptown Winter Wonderland Holiday Market
Nov. 29, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Seven Points, Minneapolis
Uptown Winter Wonderland transforms Seven Points into a festive hub for Small Business Saturday, complete with 30-plus local vendors, free holiday crafting, live music, and the grand opening of the new arts-focused True North Studio.
Nicollet Island Fall Market
Nov. 29-30, Nicollet Island Pavilion, Minneapolis
Celebrate the start of the holiday season at the Nicollet Island Fall Market, a cozy two-day indoor event at the historic Nicollet Island Pavilion. Browse 50-plus local makers each day offering handcrafted gifts, art, home goods, and seasonal treats, all set to warm beverages, festive music, and cheerful holiday vibes. Admission is free and open to all.
Afton Village Holiday 2025
Nov. 29-Dec. 25, Downtown Afton
Afton Village Holiday 2025 transforms the charming St. Croix River town of Afton into a festive winter wonderland, complete with horse-drawn wagon rides, strolling carolers, a Christmas tree lighting, children’s crafts, an artist gift market, and seasonal food and drinks. Throughout the village, local shops and venues offer special events, workshops, bonfires, treats, and holiday cheer all season long. Signature celebrations include the Candy Cane Trail (Nov. 29), Celebrate Merry & Bright (Dec. 5-6), and Wrap It Up Festive Giving (Dec. 13).
Courtesy of Afton Village Holiday
Tinsel Town Holiday Extravaganza
Dec. 4-21, The Market at Malcolm Yards, Minneapolis
Tinsel Town brings a full month of holiday magic to Malcolm Yards, featuring a festive makers market, seasonal workshops, Santa visits, and strolling Victorian carolers. The annual Holiday Market returns Dec. 13-14 with 25-plus local makers, while Sip ‘n Bloom hosts wreath and floral workshops throughout December.
Gifts in the Gallery
Dec. 4-23, Bloomington Center for the Arts, Bloomington
Artistry’s Gifts in the Gallery is a juried, boutique-style holiday sale held in the beautifully decorated Inez Greenberg Gallery, featuring one-of-a-kind, handmade gifts from more than 50 local artists. Shoppers can explore unique jewelry, ceramics, wood-turned home goods, and other artisan-made treasures perfect for everyone on their list. The annual event offers a festive, gallery-quality shopping experience that highlights the creativity of regional makers.
46th Annual Holiday Bazaar
Dec. 5-7, Landmark Center, St. Paul
The 47th Annual Holiday Bazaar at St. Paul’s historic Landmark Center brings three days of festive shopping, holiday decor, and live music to this beautifully restored venue. Guests can browse handcrafted gifts from 80 regional artists, including jewelry, woodwork, paintings, wearable art, lotions, soaps, and more. Admission is $5 (cash or check), with free entry for children 12 and under.
Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival
Dec. 5-7, American Swedish Institute, Minneapolis
ASI’s Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival fills the first weekend of December with one of the region’s largest holiday markets, featuring 60-plus local artists, festive foods, music, family crafts, and access to the Turnblad Mansion’s holiday exhibition. Perfect for all ages, this three-day celebration offers shopping, performances, and special family-friendly activities.
Christkindlsmarkt in Waconia
Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-14, Waconia
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Christkindlsmarkt brings the charm of traditional German open-air Christmas markets to Waconia. This beloved annual event features authentic holiday foods, decorations, gifts, and family-friendly entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere for all. Free and open to the public.
Holiday Market
Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Chanhassen Recreation Center, Chanhassen
The Holiday Market at the Chanhassen Recreation Center offers a festive selection of handcrafted and commercial gifts, from jewelry and decor to toys and treats—perfect for holiday shopping. Admission is free, with donations of nonperishable food items encouraged.
No Coast Craft-o-Rama
Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Midtown Global Market, Minneapolis
No Coast Craft-o-Rama returns to Midtown Global Market for its 20th year, featuring dozens of local artists, crafters, and indie makers. Enjoy unique handmade goods, live plaza entertainment, great food, and a full day of festive, modern holiday shopping. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
2025 Grand Meander
Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Grand Avenue, St. Paul
The Grand Meander invites visitors to stroll Grand Avenue for a festive day of local shopping, holiday treats, and seasonal entertainment. Guests can enjoy free trolley rides, caroling, Santa visits, special sales, and fun contests like storefront decorating and soup tasting.
2025 Holiday Craft Fair
Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Lindström Community Center, Lindström
The Lindström Holiday Craft Fair features more than 20 vendor booths, festive shopping, and delicious food from the local Boy Scout pack. Free admission. Open 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Chateau Winter Market
Dec. 6, 2-6 p.m., Historic Chateau Theatre, Rochester
The Chateau Winter Market transforms Rochester’s historic Chateau Theatre into a cozy indoor holiday market featuring 40-plus local makers, seasonal snacks, and festive entertainment. A collaboration between Threshold Arts and area small businesses, it offers a warm, charming setting for gift shopping while supporting local creators. Admission is free.
Minneapolis Vintage Market
Dec. 7 and Dec. 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Machine Shop, Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Vintage Market returns to the historic Machine Shop with two floors of curated vintage clothing, accessories, and home goods from top Minnesota vendors. Shoppers can enjoy coffee, a food truck, drinks from the Machine Shop bar, and music from DJ Buster Baxter while they browse. Read our Style Editor’s take here.
Courtesy of Minneapolis Vintage Market
Holiday Night Market
Dec. 11, 4-9 p.m., Tangletown Gardens, Minneapolis
The Holiday Night Market at Tangletown Gardens invites guests to stroll under twinkle lights and festive decor while shopping from 25 local makers and artists. Enjoy food from Wise Acre Eatery, hot cocoa or an adult beverage from the Vespa Bar, and a visit from Santa and his “reincow,” Cinnamon. Admission is free, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Uplift North, a nonprofit supporting children and families in the Greater Twin Cities.
Last Minute Gifts
Dec. 12, 6-9 p.m., Springboard for the Arts, St. Paul
Last Minute Gifts is Springboard for the Arts’ annual holiday pop-up market in St. Paul, featuring 30-plus local makers, artisans, and craftspeople. It’s a festive, ADA-accessible gathering where shoppers can find unique, last-minute presents—and maybe a treat for themselves—while supporting Minnesota artists.
Off the Rails Market
Dec. 12-13, Northern Pacific Center, Brainerd
The December Off the Rails Market fills Brainerd’s Northern Pacific Center with handmade gifts, local vendors, live music, and festive food and drinks. Friday’s VIP Night features specialty cocktails, a gift, candle-making, and a live paella dinner.
Rochester Holiday Craft & Gift Show
Dec. 12-14, Mayo Civic Center, Rochester
The Rochester Holiday Craft & Gift Show brings more than 120 vendors to the Mayo Civic Center, offering handcrafted goods, unique gifts, jewelry, clothing, wellness products, woodwork, metal art, and more. Enjoy shopping, family fun, goodie bags, $3 admission (kids under 12 free), plus roses for the first 100 attendees and a portion of proceeds donated to a local charity.
Minneapolis Women’s Art Festival
Dec. 13, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Seward Montessori School, Minneapolis
The Minneapolis Women’s Art Festival returns with more than 130 women artists showcasing original works in a variety of media. Enjoy live music from women performers, food, beverages, and a festive community atmosphere at this long-running, non-juried celebration of local creativity. Free to attend.
Nicollet Island Winter Market
Dec. 13-14, Nicollet Island Pavilion, Minneapolis
The Nicollet Island Winter Market offers two festive days of last-minute holiday shopping, featuring upcycled lamps, fair trade clothing, handcrafted jewelry, local arts, pottery, and fresh flowers. Enjoy seasonal drinks, live music, and plenty of holiday cheer as you browse unique, meaningful gifts.
Minnesota Merry Market
Dec. 13-14 and Dec. 20-21, State Fair North End Event Center, St. Paul
The Minnesota Merry Market returns to the State Fairgrounds with four festive days of family-friendly fun, featuring more than 80 local artists and makers. Guests can shop for unique gifts, sip warm beverages, ride the trackless train, make Christmas crafts, and visit with Santa. Free admission and parking.
Holiday Craft and Gift Expo
Dec. 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Veterans Memorial Community Center, Inver Grove Heights
Discover 75-plus vendors at this one-day holiday market, featuring handmade crafts, upcycled goods, art, baked treats, photography, and unique gifts from local makers and small businesses.
Ramsey Holiday Craft & Gift Expo
Dec. 21, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Adrenaline Sports Center, Ramsey
Browse a festive mix of handmade goods and unique finds from local makers, including woodwork, metal art, embroidery, crocheted items, photography, baked treats, jams, wellness products, and more.
