Whether you’re planning ahead or waiting until the last minute, there are plenty of opportunities to shop local for winter holiday gifts (or just to treat yourself). No judgment here: We are also fans of the latter.
Here’s a lineup of November and December markets:
12th Annual Festival of the Arts
When: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20
Where: Herberger Theater Center at 222 E. Monroe St., Phoenix 85004
Presented by the Herberger Theater Center, the Annual Festival of the Arts will be celebrating its 12th continuous year being present, and will have performances, dancing, and live music. Activities that are hands-on will also be available for the little ones, with beer and wine tasting available to those who are a fan of alcohol. Vendors will also be present for anyone in the mood to buy artwork and additional things. This festival of the arts is also a great way for certain programs to be showcased that attendees are possibly interested in joining as well. Admission is free, and this festival is an all-around great place for all age ranges.
Black Market
When: 2 – 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 20
Where: 1101 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 85004
Similar to the Melrose Vintage Market, the Black Market is also a market but specifically has Black-owned vendors which is a great way to support Black-owned businesses. The Black Market will also showcase and feature “fabulous” drag performances. Towards the end of the event, there will also be a vigil for the Transgender Day of Remembrance. This free-admission event is four hours from 2 to 6 p.m., and is hosted by the Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS.
Melrose Vintage Market
When: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 19 at
Where: 700 W. Campbell Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85013
The Melrose Vintage Market is a monthly neighborhood market that is open on the Sunday of the third weekend of each month. The market features 50+ vendors that showcase and sell handmade items, vintage collections, and even local food. The event comes at no cost, as it is even dog-friendly. Masks are also not required but are recommended. The Melrose Vintage Market is a great and relaxed place to walk around, and be involved within the Phoenix community.
Holiday Pop-up Markets
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on every Saturday between Nov. 27 and Dec. 18
Where: Bragg’s Pie Factory at 1301 N.W. Grand Ave. #8, Phoenix 85007
Each week, Bragg’s Pie Factory will publish a list of local vendors, from vintage goods to handmade items.
Buy Black Marketplace
When: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 26 and Saturday, Dec. 18
Where: 918 N. 2nd St., Phoenix 85004
Since 2016, Archwood Exchange has put on the Buy Black Marketplace to support local Black-owned businesses.
Makers Market
When: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4 and 11 a.m. – 5 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 5
Where: Nurture House at 906 W. Roosevelt St., Phoenix 85007
Makers Market will be a two-day event that will feature 25+ creators. There will also be a gift-wrapping station for anyone who needs to wrap their resumed presents. DJs and musicians will also be present at the event, in addition to a couple of different featured food vendors each day. Coffee beverages will be available from Hakiri Coffee for those who want to get into the holiday spirit. Admission is free, and anyone is welcomed and encouraged to join this wonderful market.
Phoenix Festival of the Arts
When: Saturday, Dec. 11 and Sunday, Dec. 12
Where: Margaret T. Hance Park at 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix 85004
The Phoenix Festival of The Arts is a highly anticipated event within the Phoenix art community. This art festival will provide a different setting and be mainly held in the Margaret T. Hance park, providing much greenery. Local art will be available to buy, in addition to items such as jewelry, ceramics and more. Performances/presenters will also be featured to contribute to the relaxed ambiance. In addition, food trucks will also be prevalent throughout the park and include different types of foods such as burgers, tacos, ice cream and more. Of course, this event is free to get in and welcoming to anyone who is interested in attending.
Phoestivus
When: 5 – 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 15 and Thursday, Dec. 16
Where: 721 N. Central Ave., Phoenix 85004
Phoestivus, which will be celebrating its 12 year anniversary, is a fundraiser for the Downtown Phoenix Farmers Market and aims to celebrate the Phoenix community. This yeti-themed event has the option of shopping from local artisans, trying some Phoestivus ale, and even celebrating certain traditions. A free t-shirt is also offered to those who choose to volunteer and support the community. Local vendors will also be present, selling perfect gift ideas for the holiday season. Attendance comes at no cost for anyone who is interested in participating in this over-decade-long tradition.
Slacker Holiday Gift Market
When: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18 and Sunday, Dec. 19
Where: MonOrchid Park at 214 E. Roosevelt St., Phoenix 85004
The Slacker Holiday Gift Market is the perfect place to go for any last-minute Christmas shopping that needs to get done, while having a good time. This gift market features over 150 local makers and vintage vendors that make up a convenient “mini-market” for those who need the perfect gift ASAP. In addition to that, local beer, music, and selfies with the one and only Santa are some extra activities you can indulge in after you get your last-minute shopping in. Even better, Santa will be available for photos between 12 and 2 p.m. each day. Slacker welcomes anyone for $5 entry.
