Charlotte is glowing with holiday cheer — twinkling lights, hot cocoa, and markets packed with local makers, selling everything from handmade ornaments to small-batch treats. Whether you’re crossing names off your gift list or treating yourself to something festive, here are 10 markets to shop small around the Queen City this season.
The Market at Light the Knights Festival | Various days + times through Jan. 4 | Truist Field | Shop an assortment of local businesses selling trinkets, baked items, and clothing.
Uptown Holiday Market | Wednesday, Dec. 3-Saturday, Dec 6 | Hours vary | Legacy Union Plaza | The festive pop-up in Center City is the perfect stop for gifts, grabbing a bite, or enjoying the holiday atmosphere.
Feliz Navi Dog | Friday, Dec. 5-Sunday, Dec. 7 | 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m. | NoDa Brewing Company | Bring your pup and enjoy a free holiday-themed dog park, local pet vendors, and plenty of treats for you and your pets.
NoDa Holiday Bizarre | Saturday, Dec. 6 | 12-6 p.m. | Johnston YMCA | The annual bizarre showcases 75+ local vendors, handmade gifts, and local artists.
Mistletoe Market | Saturday, Dec. 6, Dec. 14, and Dec. 20 | 2-7 p.m. | Camp North End | Shop from local vendors stationed in huts before enjoying a fire and ice skating outdoors.
Winter Holiday Market | Saturday, Dec. 6 | 3-8 p.m. | Greenway Gateway, Fort Mill, SC | Parking starts at $5 | Shop from 50 vendors selling handmade goods, home décor, candles, and family items + enjoy live music and snacks.
Plaza Midwood’s Merry Holiday Market | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 12-5 p.m. | Plaza Midwood | Celebrate a full day of community, shopping, and holiday cheer leading up to a tree lighting at Legion Brewing at 6 p.m.
International Holiday Bazaar | Sunday, Dec. 7 | 12-4 p.m. | Refugee Support Services | The annual market brings together dozens of vendors selling handmade goods like textiles, pottery, jewelry, and international foods.
Charlotte’s Classic Christmas Market | Sunday, Dec. 14 | 11 a.m.-4 p.m. | Levine Avenue of the Arts | More than 100 vendors are anticipated to line the avenue ahead of the holidays.
Christmas Market | Weekends only, Nov. 29- Dec. 21 | 12 a.m.-9 p.m. | Olde Mecklenburg Brewery | Experience the fun at OMB’s market featuring 50 vendors, delicious food, music, and traditional Gluhwein.
Want to win prizes while shopping? The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority launched a holiday passport, which offers discounts and the chance to win Charlotte-themed goodies.