The Local newsletter is your free, daily guide to life in Colorado. For locals, by locals. Sign up today!
Cherry Creek Holiday Market | November 18–December 24
Satisfy your sweet tooth and shopping craving at this festive experience, where you’ll be able to peruse wares, ranging from ceramics to crêpes, from 30 designers and creators. Be sure to also check out the holiday market’s concert schedule ahead of time, so that you can listen to tunes from local acts, including country artist Larry Nix, while shopping for goods like scented soy candles. Free admission; Sunday–Wednesday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Thursday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fillmore Plaza between 1st and 2nd avenues.
Denver Christkindl Market | November 19–December 23
This 20-year-old authentic German and European market is one of the most reliable places to find food and artisan gifts from local and international vendors. Along with the shopping, be sure to cozy up next to your loved ones with sweet hot cocoa or spiced glühwein and watch performances from bands and dancers busting down to the German Polka. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrity guest appearances from St. Nikolaus, Krampus, and Christkind. Free admission; Sunday–Wednesday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Thursday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. (with some exceptions); Civic Center Park, 101 14th Ave.
16th Street Mall Holiday Festival | Select dates throughout November and December
This annual marketplace draws massive crowds. But that doesn’t mean you’ll have to worry about all those people blocking your view of the festivities: Thanks to the 100-foot LED Mile High Christmas Tree (the largest electronic tree in North America), you and your family are sure to be able to enjoy the spectacle and snag some pictures. Of course, you can also check out marketplace vendors doling out handcrafted holiday gifts and delicious food. Free admission; Weekends, November 20, 21, 27, 28, December 4, 11, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; 16th Street Mall, between Welton Street and Glenarm Place
RiNo Holiday Bazaar | November 27–28
With more than 100 curated craft and fashion vendors, you’ll almost feel overwhelmed with the selection at this holiday extravaganza. Don’t fret, though, the indoor and outdoor market has all the right ingredients (like a heated food hall where you can indulge in some festive cocktails) to keep you going throughout your giant shopping escapade. Be sure to check out Holiday Bazaar’s other locations in early December, too. Free admission, RSVPs recommended, VIP tickets available; Saturday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.; Zeppelin Station, 3501 Wazee Street.
Holiday Art Mart | December 3
Strap on those snow boots and strut down the Art District on Santa Fe for 2021’s final First Friday Art Walk. This iconic event will be joined with a holiday art mart at Skylight, where you can peruse local art vendors, grab a bite from food trucks, and make your memories last at the photo booth. Of note: The galleries, studios, and boutiques featured in the Art Walk do have social distancing and mask requirements. Free admission; Friday, 5:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m., rain or shine; Skylight, 833 Santa Fe Drive.
Holiday Cravt Market | December 4
This quarterly makers market will feature 10 artists showcasing things like jewelry, art, and herbs in Ritualcravt’s storefront. There will even be some special zest for the holidays, as Tattoos X Moonlight will provide hand-poke flash tattoos on a first-come, first-served basis. Be sure to also check out Ritualcravt’s great selection of crystals, candles, and other goods suited to your spiritual needs. Free Admission; Saturday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; 7700 W. 44th Ave., Wheat Ridge.
Boulder County Fairgrounds Winter Market | December 4–5
Missing those sunny Sunday mornings when you would venture out to your farmers’ market? The temperature may be a bit cooler, but you’ll be able to find Boulder County Farmers Market’s frosty match in Longmont at their winter event, which features some holiday flair. With more than 100 Colorado vendors, you’ll find locally sourced ingredients for your next stew or roast, and be able to treat yourself to items like jewelry, skincare goods, and wine. Visitors can even sit in on cooking demos or enjoy live music offerings while your children make their own ornaments. Free admission; Saturday–Sunday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Exhibit Building on the Boulder County Fairgrounds, 9595 Nelson Road.
Georgetown Christmas Market | December 4–12
Between chestnuts roasting on an open fire and horse-drawn wagon rides, you’ll feel transported back in time at this mountain-town festival. Find thoughtful gifts from craft vendors, including rare books, rich wines, and even Victorian items for your home, all while enjoying the ambiance of this merry town. In other words, not even Ebenezer Scrooge could mess with this market. Free admission; Weekends, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.; 600 6th Street, Georgetown.
(Read more: Your 2021 Holiday Gift Guide for Colorado-Made Goods)