For those looking for a personal gift this holiday season, these holiday markets will have what you need, whether it’s gourmet food or original works of art.
Norwegian Holiday Festival
December 1–2, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
This holiday season, celebrate in Norwegian style. Shop a variety of Norwegian gifts, including cookware, books, chocolate, and coffee. The outdoor café is offering cooking demos for krumkakker, a waffle cookie, and lefse, a traditional Norwegian flatbread. On December 2, stop by the festival to see Fjord horses and Norwegian Lundehund dogs, along with Viking storytelling. Reservations are required for indoor shopping. Norway House: 3846 Meredith Dr., Fairfax, free
Del Ray Artisans Holiday Market
December 1–3, 8–10, 15–17, 22–23, 6–9 p.m. on Fridays, 11 a.m.–6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
With four weekends of holiday shopping, this market offers many opportunities to find the perfect presents. Artists are selling their original works in a variety of media, from textiles to jewelry to paintings. The rotation of artists changes each weekend, so feel free to stop by each weekend. Del Ray Artisans Gallery: 2704 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria, free
Lorton Holiday Extravaganza
December 2, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
This event is sure to bring holiday cheer for your whole family. The celebration begins when Santa arrives on a firetruck. Little ones can participate in the Candy Cane Kids’ Fun Run and Santa’s Jingle Bell Parade. There is a scavenger hunt, face painting, games, and the Jingle Bell Kids’ Shoppe Experience, where every item is $8. Have your photo taken with Santa from 10 a.m. to noon. Parents can also join in on the shopping fun with 180 local vendors, a silent auction, and Santa’s Annual Book Emporium. South County High School: 8501 Silverbrook Rd., Lorton, $3 for general admission, free for kids under 11 and under, military and veteran families, Fairfax County Public Schools staff, and Inova blood drive donors
Leesburg Holiday Fine Arts & Crafts Show
December 2, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; December 3, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Candles, stained glass, jewelry, linens, and other crafts will be sold at this holiday market that features nearly 100 artisans. If you visit the market on December 2, head over to the Leesburg Town Green at 6 p.m. for the holiday tree lighting, along with live music, and holiday characters. Ida Lee Park Recreation Center: 60 Ida Lee Dr. NW, Leesburg, free
HolidayFest Artisan Market
December 2, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; December 3, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Occoquan’s holiday market has everything you need to get in the jolly spirit. The festivities kick off when Santa rides down the river to the Town Dock at 10:45 a.m. With 100 artisans, this market is every shopaholic’s dream. Watch participants at the annual gingerbread contest build elaborate (and edible) Victorian mansions and historic buildings. Kids can make gifts or write Santa. On December 2, you can explore the market while sipping an alcoholic beverage. River Mill Park: 407 Mill St., Occoquan, free
Manassas Holiday Market and Santa Train
December 9, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
All aboard for this day of festive fun. The Santa Train is sure to be a jolly ride. Santa’s helpers are offering candy canes and coloring books, and festive attire is encouraged. After riding the train, stop by one of the market’s vendors for a handcrafted gift. This event sells out fast. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on November 27 on Eventbrite. Manassas Train Depot Parking Lot: 9431 West St., Manassas, $5
Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market & Holiday Craft Show
December 9, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
Head over to John Carlyle Square for holiday shopping galore. Over 100 vendors and artisans will sell their handmade items, including Christmas tree ornaments, jewelry, home décor, and bath products. Also enjoy the Christmas Carols Show, pictures with Santa, and the Elves’ Shop, where kids can decorate their own ornaments. John Carlyle Square: 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria, free
Feature image by Radoslav/stock.adobe.com
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