Holiday markets are condensed centers of seasonal joy and capitalism. Engaging in heavy-handed spending is just baked into the Christmas pie, but at least you can feel good about it at a holiday market. What’s better than shopping local with mulled wine in one hand and raclette cheese in the other?
There are well over a hundred holiday markets in the Twin Cities this season, but I went on a mission to find the best three. The markets that made my list have some combination of unique vendors, a great location, and a strong grasp of the holiday spirit. Plus, these markets all go through December, so if you don’t catch it one weekend, it will still be around the next. If you don’t see your favorite here, you can email us with addendums.
1. European Christmas Market at Union Depot
It’s a classic for a reason. Walking through the neatly lined cabins of vendors, feeling the cold on my cheeks as I looked at alpaca-fur gloves, sipping mulled wine in a commemorative cup – that’s what this market is all about. I ate a strawberry churro and spaetzle and felt like I was floating on a snowbank of dreams. Fridays and weekends through Dec. 21. Times vary by day.
Know before you go: This is an outdoor market, so bundle up. There are also two warming houses serving drinks if you need a break.
Highlights: The yearly commemorative mugs.
For kids: The North Pole Express will pull into Union Depot in mid-December, and kids can come aboard to meet Santa and his elves. Kids can write their letter to Santa while seated in the vintage train for a real “Polar Express” experience. Dec. 5-7 and 11-14.
2. Field and Festival Holiday Market at Wagner’s Garden Center
The Field and Festival holiday market at Wagner’s Garden Center in Minneapolis. (Courtesy of Minneapolis Craft Market)
The vibes at this holiday market / greenhouse are fantastic. I loved perusing baked goods and handmade art beneath the glass ceilings of the Wagner’s Garden Center. You can even pick up a seasonal plant on your way out. Weekends through Dec. 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Know before you go: The aisles between vendors can be a tight squeeze.
Highlights: A satisfying selection from artists, bakers, and farmers.
3. Raging Art On at Gamut Gallery
This market probably has the best name out of all of these. Each holiday season, Gamut Gallery covers as much of its walls as possible with pieces from local artists. If you like something, you can buy it on the spot, which makes you feel like a baller connoisseur of fine stuff. This year, they’re featuring works from 71 artists, and you can even shop online. Thursdays to Sundays through Dec. 21, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Know before you go: Expect gallery prices, but with a fair range. It’s about $50 for smaller pieces to more than $400 for larger or more intricate pieces.
Highlights: Barret Lee’s popular “Tweets” series featuring an adorably long-legged bird will be on display. The little framed prints (about $50) tend to go fast.
Honorable mentions
If you want even more holiday cheer, these places are also worth getting in your car and driving through the snow for.
A Handmade Holiday Market 2025 at Bruhaven Craft Co.
I really appreciate the emphasis on “handmade” here, and this market is located in a great brewery. You can grab a beer, THC drink, or even a latte while you shop in this laid-back market. There’s even Minneapolis Axe Throwing if you need to get some holiday stress out of your system. Weekends through Dec. 21, check their website for exact dates.
No Coast Craft-o-Rama at Midtown Global Market
This is one of the O.G. markets, according to Racket. The Craft-o-Rama is in its twentieth and last year, so catch it before it’s gone. Dec. 6 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.) and Dec. 7 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.).
(Dis)honorable mentions
Dayton’s Holiday Market on Nicollet
I understand the nostalgia, but this market is like trying to have a good Christmas when all the relatives are fighting. The vibes are frenetic and stressful. It’s mostly a collection of products from local vendors, not organized in a clear way, so you’re just walking around in a daze. I had to sit down and catch my breath midway through.
Nordic Village at the Four Seasons
No beef with the Four Seasons, but the setup of this market also stresses me out. You get to the rooftop, and all the vendors are inside warming houses. You need to physically open the door to each one, and inside sits the vendor in a tiny cabin watching you while you anxiously decide if you want what they’re selling. I don’t need that pressure, thanks.
