The holiday season is here, which means it’s almost time to bundle up and make your way to a holiday market. These jolly shopping events offer up live music, festive lights, seasonal snacks, and, of course, a chance to shop around for gifts and goodies you can’t find in stores. Whether you’re looking for a gift for everyone on your list or just searching for a fun, festive way to spend an afternoon, these NoVA and DC holiday markets are just the thing.
DowntownDC Holiday Market
November 22–December 23
The annual DC holiday market is back in the Penn Quarter–Chinatown neighborhood for its 20th year. The market here is now under the management of The Makers Show, which runs several similar markets around the country. Shoppers will find apparel and accessories, art, lotion and candles, and other items perfect for gifting. Plus, food vendors include barbecue, tacos, raclette, and more. F St. NW, between Seventh and Ninth streets, Washington, DC
DC Holiday Market
November 22–December 15, closed November 28
Since the Chinatown area holiday market is under new ownership, the old owners (Diverse Markets Management) have opened a new market at Dupont Circle — right behind Kramers bookstore. There will be a stage with live performances every night and more than 30 small businesses selling their wares. Grab mini doughnuts or roasted nuts for a snack while you shop. 1500 block of 19th St. NW, Washington, DC
Chick’s Picks Holiday PopUp in One Loudoun
November 30–December 15
This isn’t just any holiday market. Instead of going booth to booth and paying vendors as you go, this pop-up shop is organized just like a regular store, with pieces from women-owned businesses arranged throughout the space and just one area for registers. You’ll find cute, curated goods that are refreshed daily. 20453 Exchange St., Ashburn
McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival
December 6–8
The Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild puts on a three-day juried art and craft show, where visitors can see works from about 80 regional artists. There’s pottery, glassworks, jewelry, fashion accessories — the list goes on. On Friday evening from 4 to 7 p.m., there’s a happy hour event for an additional fee. McLean Community Center: 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, $5 for three-day admission, $15 for happy hour (including show admission)
City of Fairfax Holiday Market
December 6–8, 13–15
For the first two weekends of December, Old Town Fairfax will be home to its own winter wonderland full of live music, craft vendors, and tasty treats. See booths selling jewelry, candles, teas, and baked goods. Old Town Square: 10415 North St., Fairfax
Dupont Circle Holiday Pop-Up Market Weekend
December 7–8, 12–5 p.m.
In addition to the daily running market in Dupont Circle, there will be a one-weekend pop-up market in Dupont Circle park. During this event, roving carolers will keep the music going while shoppers look at handmade crafts, home décor, and jewelry and sip on hot cocoa. Dupont Circle Park: 15 Dupont Cir. NW, Washington, DC
Old Town Alexandria Christmas Market and Holiday Craft Show
December 14, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
John Carlyle Square will be filled with artisans and crafters and other holiday fun. Look around for a gift, stop by a food and dessert vendor for a treat, and enjoy the jolly holiday music. Plus, kids can meet Santa for a photo and make ornaments in the kids’ craft corner. John Carlyle Square: 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria
Herndon WinterMarkt
December 14, 12–7 p.m.
Herndon’s annual market takes inspiration from “the old-world charm of Christmas in Europe,” with many arts and crafts vendors, plus traditional German holiday treats like lebkuchen, mulled wine, and stollen. Little ones can visit the kinder corner for storybook readings and crafts. Corner of Lynn and Station streets, Herndon
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Feature image courtesy The Makers Show
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