Holiday Craft Fairs and Markets in and around Philadelphia

11/14/16 - By Kristen Sullivan

Shopping for the perfect gift can be one of the most dreaded tasks to accomplish over the winter holidays, especially with the kids in tow. It doesn't have to be though. We've rounded up some of the top craft fairs, holiday markets, Christmas bazaars, and pop-up shops in the area. Some are only one day events while others are weeks long. In addition, many of these locations have activities to keep the kids occupied. An added bonus is that these venues feature one of a kind gifts, the kind you can't find at the mall. And, if you have some 'difficult to please' individuals on your shopping list like me, this gives you the chance to wow them with a great holiday find. Happy shopping!

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Byers' Choice Christmas Market Chalfont
November 1- December 31, 2016
(Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day)
Most commonly known for its beautifully appointed Christmas Caroler figurines, Byers' Choice LTC offers these well-crafted items as well as nativities, nutcrackers, handmade ornaments, and more to view. Children can take a break from window shopping by dropping off a letter to Santa or enjoying some Christmas cookies and cider. Be sure to check out the indoor snowstorm and singing reindeer, too!

Christkindlmarkt Bethlehem
November 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, December 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, and 18, 2016
In a town called Bethlehem, people know this location as The Christmas City. To celebrate the season, families can browse Christkindlmarkt for shopping, view the gingerbread house display, and take in the Christmas scenery.

 Photo courtesy of Art Star.

Art Star Craft Bazaar Philadelphia
November 19-20, 2016
Seek out some great finds at this craft fair held at Simeone Foundation Automobile Museum. After tackling your shopping list, take the kids around to see the cars in the museum. Food trucks will also be available for snacks and lunch.

Franklin Flea Holiday Market Philadelphia
November 19, 26, December 3, and 17, 2016
If you have any tough-to-buy-for loved ones on your shopping list, Franklin Flea Holiday Market can provide you a multitude of alternatives. Offerings such as vintage clothing, collectibles, jewelry, antiques, and assortments of foods are available for purchase during select Saturdays in November and December.

Made in Philadelphia Holiday Market Philadelphia
November 19- December 24, 2016
Looking for something truly Philly? Local artisans, crafters, and vendors display their wares for shoppers at Dilworth Park. Once your shopping is complete, ice skate at Rothman Rink.

Christmas Village in Philadelphia Philadelphia
November 24-December 24, 2016
(Preview weekend November 19-20, 2016)
City Hall is transformed into a German Christmas Market. In addition to over 80 vendors, families can expect children's activities such as finding Elfred the Mad Elf every Monday to win a prize, taking a ride on the carousel, visiting with Santa, and making crafts.

 Photo courtesy of Christmas Village in Philadelphia.

Stag and Doe Nights Chestnut Hill
November 30, December 7, 14, and 21, 2016
Explore the shops in Chestnut Hill as they extend their hours on Wednesdays throughout the season. While finding the perfect gifts, shoppers can enjoy refreshments and Christmas music.

University City Arts League Craft Fair Philadelphia
December 2-18, 2016
Shop local! This craft fair features 30 vendors selling wooden crafts, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and more.

Lucia Fest and Christmas Market Philadelphia
December 3, 2016
The American Swedish Historical Museum hosts this one-day family-friendly festival honoring St. Lucia with a special procession. In addition, guests can expect a Christmas Market with Christmas decorations, gifts, and baked goods for sale.

Bartram's Gardens Greens Sale and Holiday Market Philadelphia
December 3, 2016
Deck the halls with fresh garlands and wreaths from the Bartram's Gardens Greens Sale and Holiday Market. Afterwards, take some time to explore the grounds with the kiddos.

Greensgrow Holiday Bazaar Philadelphia
December 3, 4, 10, and 11, 2016
Visit Greensgrow Farm to purchase local this year. Holiday trees, wreaths, and garlands as well as wares on display by local artisans are available for purchase.

Crafty Balboa Holiday Philadelphia
December 10, 2016
Shop 'til you drop at BOK. This venue includes 65 artists and makers featuring a great selection of handmade gifts. Come early because the first 50 shoppers receive a special goodie bag.

Header photo courtesy of Franklin Flea Market.

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