The Best Philadelphia Holiday Markets
It’s always fun to experience Philly’s shopping scene, and this is particularly true during the holiday season, when “villages” full of tents pop up and local artisans hawk their colorful, inventive wares. Read on to learn all about Philly’s best such markets in 2019, from a craft fair to a greenery bazaar.
Christmas Village
The Christmas Village is a massive fair that evokes a German Christmas market, with crafts and European food and drinks. It’s considered one of the most important events of Philadelphia’s holiday season and annually draws several hundred thousand visitors to its music and dance shows, along with its 80 booths.
Open Thanksgiving through Christmas.
Liberty Flea
Hosted by local thrifting destination The Captain’s Vintage, the Liberty Flea has a throwback feel and an emphasis on vintage products: antique housewares, retro clothing, costume jewelry, and used cameras. For foodies, booths for vegan sweets, herbal teas, and artisanal hot sauces are also known to make an appearance at the event.
Open November 9 and December 14.
Art Star Holiday Craft Bazaar
Art Star Holiday Craft Bazaar is for those who want to make their own crafts, as well as those who want to buy those of professional potters, jewelers, and glassblowers. Held in the Sugarhouse Casino, it boasts a crafting station and 80 vendors, along with food vendors and a full cash bar.
Open November 23-24.
Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market
As the name suggests, the Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market highlights the work of locals, with an extensive list of artisans, confectioners, crafters, and designers that changes every year. As it occupies Dilworth Park, across the street from Love Park, it is easily accessible from Christmas Village.
Open from November 23 to January 1.
Bartram’s Handmade Holiday Greens Sale
If you’re in the market for a wreath, centerpiece, or Christmas tree, then don’t miss Bartram’s Handmade Holiday Greens Sale. It’s the perfect spot to pick up whatever greens you desire, plus roping and other necessary materials. If you like, attend a wreath-making class under the instruction of one of the staff members.
Open December 1.
Stag and Doe Nights
Stag and Doe Nights offer an enchanting ambience along with plenty of high-end holiday shopping. The oldest holiday tradition in Northwest Philly, the evening markets take over Chestnut Hill’s Germantown Avenue and offer cocoa, wine tastings, and seasonal delicacies, plus extended store hours.
Open December 4, 11, and 18.
Drexel Market
As part of the “retail laboratory” at its media and design college, Drexel puts on an impressive market that features jewelry, body products, or stationery created and selected by its students. This is an ideal stop if you’re hanging around University City, or simply looking for a unique and modern gift.
Old City Holiday Market
For a boutique experience of Philly’s holiday shopping, don’t miss the Old City Holiday Market. Gifts, greens from a local gardening shop, ornaments, and seasonal sweets are among the many delights that await in its Elfreth’s Alley venue.
Open November 24 to December 23.