The holiday season is in full swing. There are lights and decorations around every corner. Delicious baked goods are beginning to make appearances on every tabletop. And if you listen closely, you might hear the sound of Mariah Carey or Michael Bublé crooning softly in the background.
What better way to join in on the holiday festivities than a visit to one of NoVA’s annual holiday markets? Arts and crafts, gift ideas, and yummy seasonal treats—what’s not to love? Here are five December holiday markets to visit this season.
Fairfax City Holiday Market
Looking to do a little Christmas shopping? A visit to Old Town Square in Fairfax during the first two weekends of December may be just the place to go. The Fairfax City Holiday Market takes place this year December 3 to 5 and December 10 to 12. With over 20 vendors each weekend, you’re bound to find that perfect gift for somebody special. And don’t miss your chance to take a photo with Santa on Sunday, December 5 for kids and families or Sunday, December 12 for pet photos. 10415 North St., Fairfax
City of Manassas Holiday Market
The fourth annual City of Manassas Holiday Market takes place this year on Saturday, December 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come visit with Santa and admire the festive outdoor ambience while shopping the vendors in search of a unique gift for someone you love. And be sure to bring your appetite. With cookies, bread bowl soup, mulled cider and wine, there’s something for everyone! 9024 Prince William St., Manassas
HolidayFest Artisan Market
Hosted in River Mill Park along the Occoquan River, the Holiday Artisan Market is not one you want to miss. Taking place Saturday, December 4 and Sunday, December 5, this market will feature the work of a variety of vendors and artisans, from ceramics and candles to furniture and gourmet food products. A number of holiday festivities are slated to coincide with the market as well. Mark your calendars for a day filled with shopping, caroling, hot cocoa, and more. 407 Mill St., Occoquan
Carlyle Holiday Market
Nothing screams the holidays quite like an overabundance of Christmas cookies. And for just $10, you can get just that at the Carlyle Holiday Market. In addition to the usual festival vendors, the annual market is introducing its inaugural Carlyle Cookie Crunch this year, where you will receive a cookie tin and have the chance to pick up different signature cookies from participating restaurants, vendors, and bakers during the market from 4 to 7 p.m. Participating patrons will then serve as judges for Carlyle’s favorite cookie. Swing on by to shop and snag your favorite holiday cookies December 5 and 6. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria
Del Ray Fine Art & Craft Holiday Market
If you’re looking for a holiday market that specializes in unique, one-of-a-kind art and crafts from local artists, Del Ray Fine Art and Craft Holiday Market may be the one for you. This annual market, which is in its 26th year, takes place every weekend in December leading up to Christmas. You can find handmade jewelry, wall art, pottery, photography, and more. 2022 wall calendars, cookbooks, and upcycled tote bags will also be available to support Del Ray artisans. 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Megan Herr is an editor and writer residing in the Shenandoah Valley. She graduated with a degree in journalism from Penn State University.
Feature image, © Radoslav/stock.adobe.com
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