It’s hard to believe, but it’s already mid-November and the holidays are barrelling down upon us. Sure, you could reward a mega-online corporate retailer by doing all your shopping on Black Friday. But why would you? Especially when Madison has so many wonderful holiday markets giving you the chance to buy that special gift from local artisans, vendors, and entrepreneurs.
Here’s a rundown of the best holiday markets coming up between now and Christmas Day, where there is something for literally everybody on your list.
Native Art Market (Nov. 14)
Come to the Arts + Literature Laboratory to see a wide range of both traditional and contemporary art made by more than 40 artists. Some of the artists will also be teaching classes this fall, so you can learn how to make your own gifts!
SAUCED Night Market (Nov. 20-21)
This semi-annual market at Garver Feed Mill is a blast, with over 70 regional vendors selling everything from hot sauce to leather goods to stained glass creations. DJ Dudley Noon will provide the soundtrack, and Dancing Goat Distillery is serving up special cocktails for the event. Editor’s note: SAUCED is a sponsor of City Cast Madison.
Dane County Holiday Farmers Market (Nov. 21, and weekly Dec. 5-19)
No crafts are allowed to be sold at this weekly Saturday favorite at Monona Terrace, but over 60 vendors will have food-related items for sale to keep your holidays delicious and local.
Hit the streets the day after Thanksgiving for this crawl featuring over 50 local vendors at eight locations on the east side, including Imaginary Factory, Hotel Indigo, and Giant Jones Brewing.
Downtown Holiday Open House (Nov. 27-29)
State Street and the Capitol Square will transform into a winter wonderland over the long weekend, with local businesses providing special sales and discounts, live music performances, and even a visit from Santa.
Made in Wisconsin Market (Nov. 28)
Nov. 28 is Small Business Saturday, and Garver Feed Mill gets into the spirit with this free market celebrating Wisconsin businesses and makers.
Dark Holiday Bazaar (Nov. 29)
Shove over, Santa. This holiday event at Crucible belongs to Krampus, with unusual local vendors, aerialist elves, a balloon twister, and of course a visit from Black Peter himself on the hunt for naughty children.
Sip and Shop (Dec. 3)
Check out the remodeled Chazen Museum of Art and shop for gifts from local vendors and artists while you enjoy wine, beer, and coffee.
Fair Trade Holiday Festival (Dec. 5)
Be confident that the gifts you buy are local and ethically sourced at this annual festival at Monona Terrace, going on next door to the Holiday Farmers Market!
The Crafty Fair (Dec. 5-6)
This is a big one, with over 150 artisans, crafters, and other vendors selling their handmade wares throughout the Goodman Community Center for a two-day event.
Nerd Made (Dec. 12)
For the tabletop gamer or other resident nerd on your list, Noble Knight Games is turning their entire Fitchburg castle over to this holiday market, with vendors selling fandom-inspired art, geeky home decor, and other one-of-a-kind accessories.
The Big Gay Holiday Market (Dec. 18-19)
Over 250 queer vendors will gather at Alliant Energy Center for sales, workshops, drag events, and other fun yuletide offerings. The Dec. 18 market is 18+ only while the Dec. 19 market is all ages, and masks are required for the first two hours on Saturday.
Holiday Black Bazaar (Dec. 19)
The Urban League of Greater Madison and the Black Chamber of Commerce are partnering for this event at the Black Business Hub, featuring vendors, food, holiday activities, and photos with Santa.
