This guide was researched in spring 2026. Timing below describes when events usually happen, not confirmed dates. For this year's dates, prices and vendor details, see the listed upcoming events or check the organizer's website before you go or apply. How we verify events

Holiday Markets in Minnesota

Minnesota's holiday market season brings warmth to the state's famously cold winters, with a calendar of craft fairs and artisan events that runs from early November through Christmas Eve. The Twin Cities anchor one of the strongest holiday craft scenes in the Upper Midwest, with arts centers like Northern Clay Center and neighborhood holiday markets drawing buyers who value handmade quality over mass-produced gifts.

Scandinavian and German heritage runs through many Minnesota holiday traditions, with julmarknad (Scandinavian Christmas market) events in Minneapolis and St. Paul, and Nordic-inspired crafts appearing throughout the state's holiday markets. Duluth's North Shore community, Stillwater's historic riverfront, and St. Paul's historic neighborhoods each offer distinct holiday shopping experiences rooted in local character.

Top Holiday Market Events in Minnesota

American Craft Fest — St. Paul (Union Depot); the American Craft Council's free regional craft festival, held in June rather than the holiday season
Minneapolis Craft Market — Twin Cities; pop-up markets at dozens of venues plus a retail store at the Meet Minneapolis Visitor Center
Northern Clay Center Sales Gallery — Minneapolis; gallery shop of handmade ceramics by regional and national artists
Downtown Stillwater — Stillwater (Historic Downtown); galleries, artisan boutiques, and antique shops for holiday shopping along the St. Croix River
Lincoln Park Craft District Holiday Market — Duluth; holiday showcase of the Lincoln Park Craft District's makers and businesses (last listed for December 9, 2023)

What to Expect

Minnesota holiday markets lean toward quality craft. Arts centers like Northern Clay Center sell work through their galleries for everyday gift shopping.

Nearly all Minnesota holiday markets are indoors given the state's winter climate, held in convention centers, art centers, and community spaces. Scandinavian holiday traditions add a distinctive character — expect Nordic-inspired designs, rosemaling, and Swedish-style baked goods at many events. Admission is free at most smaller markets.

Popular Cities for Holiday Markets in Minnesota

Minneapolis — Northern Clay Center, Minneapolis Craft Market pop-ups, and neighborhood maker markets across the city
Duluth — Lincoln Park Craft District and seasonal craft fairs
Stillwater — historic riverfront downtown with galleries and artisan shops
St. Paul — neighborhood holiday bazaars and seasonal markets

See all craft events in Minnesota.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do holiday markets start in Minnesota?

Most Minnesota holiday markets begin in early November. Smaller pop-ups and neighborhood markets continue through Christmas Eve, with the heaviest concentration in late November and early December.

Are Minnesota holiday markets indoors?

Nearly all are indoors given Minnesota's winter temperatures, held at convention centers, art centers, and event spaces. Expect warm, well-lit indoor venues for the majority of holiday craft shopping in Minnesota.

What is the American Craft Council Show?

The American Craft Council, based in Minneapolis, no longer lists a RiverCentre show among its fairs; its St. Paul event is American Craft Fest, a free two-day festival at Union Depot held in June (June 13–14 in 2026).