Traditional gifts, artisan goods, and a delicious cup of hot chocolate are just a few of the things to expect at holiday markets in Baltimore.
The weather’s cooling down. Christmas decorations are going up. You know what’s next: holiday markets popping up all over town!
My family loves to go to the holiday markets every year. Something about this centuries-old European tradition makes Christmas in the city seem just a little bit more classic. They always have wonderful decor and the atmosphere is magical with twinkling light displays, decorated Xmas trees, and vendors selling everything from artisanal goods to spiced mulled wine.
From the many that I’ve been to, there are a few that stood out. Check them out this season.
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Christmas Village in Baltimore
- Address: 401 Light St, Baltimore, MD 21202 | Website
Let’s start with the most popular one! Christmas Village in Baltimore comes to the Inner Harbor’s West Shore Park every year and attracts visitors from all over DMV. You can go ice skating at the rink in the inner harbor and take a short stroll down to West Shore Park where the Christmas Village awaits.
The German-style holiday market is one of the biggest in the city with decorations lining the path, a tall, well-trimmed Christmas tree, and over fifty different vendors. You can find crafts, artwork, artisanal gifts, European treats, and several other items that make a thoughtful Christmas gift. Afterward, head over to the beer garden for a drink and a pretzel.
MICA Art Market
- Address: 1300 W Mt Royal Ave, Baltimore, MD 21217 | Website
The Maryland Institute College of Art is a Baltimore staple. Every year, over 200 students, alumni, faculty, and staff come together for the MICA Art Market.
They’ll be showing off their talents in the form of paintings, prints, jewelry, ceramics, T-shirts, and other modes of art – all of which are available for purchase. You can support local artists and find the perfect Christmas gift all at once.
Christkindlmarkt
- Address: 400 E. Lexington Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 | Website
This traditional German market can be found at the Zion Church of the City of Baltimore every holiday season. You’ll find all sorts of traditional items at the market from imported products and candy to German crafts.
Things that I never leave without are bottles of gluhwein (hot spiced wine), bowls of German goulash soup, bratwurst, and authentic German beer.
Christmas Bazaar
- Address: 6400 E Pratt St, Baltimore, MD 21224 | Website
Our Lady of Fatima Church hosts their annual Christmas Bazaar without fail and though they do have games for the entire family and vendors with the perfect holiday gifts, it’s the home-cooked meals you want to look out for. Authentic pasta, soups, and meatball subs are just a few of the delicious hot foods available there.
Annual Black Friday Pop-Up Shop at Open Works
- Address: 1400 Greenmount Ave, Baltimore, MD 21202 | Website
Open Works is one of the largest nonprofit maker spaces in the nation, constantly fueling the local manufacturing economy by helping people learn new skills, launch new businesses, and forge new connections.
Their annual Black Friday Pop-Up Shop highlights the work of local black entrepreneurs. You’ll find unique goods and gifts that your friends and family will treasure this holiday season.
BAZAART Holiday Art Market
- Address: 800 Key Hwy, Baltimore, MD 21230 | Website
The American Visionary Art Museum houses the works of everyday people; the art you see could be made by a psychiatric patient or a farmer. So, you know that the items you come across at the BAZAART Holiday Art Market are going to be one of a kind.
You’ll come across hundreds of pieces from local and visiting artists and crafters. Go home with a painting, sculpture, jewelry, apparel, and more.
Saint Demetrios Philoptochos’ Annual Christmas Bazaar/Craft Fair
- Address: 2504 Cub Hill Rd, Parkville, MD 21234 | Website
Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church has an annual Christmas Bazaar and Craft Fair that you should visit if you’re in the area. The decor as you walk through aisles of vendors selling wreaths, handmade gifts, and crafts are very traditional and charming.
Little ones can hang out with Mrs. Claus while the family snacks on pastries and other traditional Greek foods.
Black Friday Block Party
- Address: Harbor East | Website
The annual Black Friday Block Party in Harbor East is a family-friendly community event. Stores with local branches such as J. Crew and Brooks Brothers offer special holiday sales while the streets are filled with live music, face painting, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and other Xmas fun.
And for the adults out there – don’t pass the mimosa and bloody mary bar!
Festival of Trees
- Address: 2200 York Rd, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093 | Website
The Kennedy Krieger Institute hosts its Festival of Trees celebration at the Maryland State Fairgrounds every year. It has one of the most beautiful displays of decorated trees, train gardens, and gingerbread houses that you’ll ever see.
You’ll also come across over a hundred vendors from near and far selling holiday-themed gifts, crafts, and artwork amongst other things. Keep an eye out for the homemade baked goods!
Annual Park School Holiday Artisan Market
- Address: 2425 Old Court Rd Baltimore, MD 21208 | Website
The Park School of Baltimore hosts an annual Holiday Artisan Market where you can find anything from clothes and candles to pottery and gourmet food. You’ll meet so many local artists and vendors, get to talk to them, and hear the backstory behind the pieces you buy for yourself or as a gift.
Holiday Art Expo at Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar
- Address: Holiday Street and Saratoga Street | Website
The Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar is a popular way for Baltimoreans to spend their Saturday morning. You can find a crowd under the JFX (Jones Falls Expressway) looking for their morning coffee from Zeke’s, breakfast bagels from local bakers, and more.
During the holidays, the farmers’ market transforms into a seasonal crafts bazaar. While you’ll still come across the favorite stalls you know and love, there will be more local artists and creators with items that will make the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one. They even have a complimentary gift-wrapping station!
