Photo by Darin Kamnetz
There’s nothing quite like the gift of vintage—storied, nostalgic, and littered with whimsy. Minneapolis Vintage and Craft Market founder Hayley Matthew-Jones knows this well. After founding her monthly market concept in 2015 (Minneapolis Craft Market, followed by Minneapolis Vintage Market in 2018), Matthew-Jones was quickly struck by the sense of passion and community vintage inspired in Twin Cities shoppers. More than a decade later, these monthly pop-ups have cultivated a loyal, tight-knit following that continues to outgrow its local host venues, demanding a constant spirit of adaptation and creativity from Matthew-Jones—especially when the holidays come around.
“Minneapolis has such a strong sense of holiday nostalgia. Between the Holidazzle parade, the Macy’s Christmas display, and obviously our climate, vintage winter apparel is one of our most popular items at our winter markets. I think our shoppers are really looking for those unique, quality pieces that are so much harder to find with modern manufacturing,” says Matthew-Jones.
In the spirit of this holiday nostalgia, Minneapolis Vintage and Craft Markets is rolling out a diverse calendar of six holiday-themed events, each featuring local makers, artists, designers, and vintage collectors. Hitting some of the top historic and contemporary venues across the Twin Cities—including the IDS Center, Machine Shop, Quincy Hall, and more—the festive markets present the perfect opportunity to snag that one-of-a-kind holiday gift that reflects intention and sparks conversation.
“There’s nothing better than a unique handmade or vintage gift. I think we’ve seen over the past decade of being in business that our shoppers care greatly about where they invest their shopping dollars, and when you spend that money with an independent retailer, 48¢ from every $1 spent is reinvested back into your local community,” says Matthew-Jones
Photo by Darin Kamnetz
For the Holiday Hostess
Kicking off with the Field & Festival Holiday Market at Wagner’s Garden Center, shoppers and foodies alike can wander through a locally rooted maze of farmers, artists, and food suppliers each Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 21 (10 a.m.- 2 p.m.), uncovering everything from ripe seasonal produce to imaginative holiday artwork. “This event is great for anyone who wants delicious, ready-to-eat and gourmet foods, handmade gifts, and local art,” says Matthew-Jones.
For Art and Craft Lovers
Matthew-Jones encourages shoppers who want to “enjoy a beer while browsing locally made crafts” to visit A Handmade Holiday Market at Bruhaven Craft Co. In Loring Park, running every Saturday through Dec. 20, plus Sunday, Dec. 14 (12-5 p.m.). Craft lovers will also want to flock to IDS Center for Holidays on Nicollet, where over 60 local artists and makers will curate a treasure trove of seasonal splendor—open daily through Dec. 21 (10 a.m.- 5 p.m.).
“I’m really excited to be at the IDS Center for a third year,” says Matthew-Jones. “Being able to bring holiday shopping and a festive feel to downtown Minneapolis is a huge honor.”
For Vintage Gifting
For those who already know and love Minneapolis Vintage Market’s year-round events, the magic will return—and amplify—this holiday season, with markets at Quincy Hall on Nov. 16 (11 a.m.- 4 p.m.) and Machine Shop on Dec. 7 and Dec. 21 (11 a.m.- 4 p.m.). Explore Holiday-centered clothing, accessories, home decor, and heirloom objects from your favorite local vendors, just in time for holiday party season. Similarly, the Old St. Anthony Holiday Bazaar will curate two floors of handmade goods and vintage treasures at Machine Shop on Nov. 24 and Dec. 14 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.), with a key focus on holiday gifting and partywear. “We will truly have something for everyone on your holiday shopping list,” says Matthew-Jones.
Catering to a wide range of themes, tastes, and audiences, the market schedule is designed to ignite a deep appreciation for local shopping, second-hand gifting, and the community spirit that makes the Twin Cities special. Whether it’s that perfect ’60s sequin dress or a treasured heirloom Christmas ornament, gifting and passing on relics of the past is a holiday pastime that will never go out of style.
“We’re thrilled to be able to provide so many opportunities for our shoppers to not only find the quality gifts and vintage pieces they’re looking for, but also to support hundreds of vendors in sustaining their small businesses,” says Matthew-Jones.
Visit mplsvintagemarket.com and mplscraftmarket.com to keep up with this dynamic schedule of events as the holidays draw nearer.
Photo by Darin Kamnetz
