7 Must-Shop Holiday Markets in Baltimore
There are plenty of places to shop in Baltimore when you’re searching for the perfect holiday gifts for everyone on your list. But if you’re after truly creative, one-of-a-kind items, nothing compares to Baltimore’s holiday markets. These festive events across the city showcase unique, handcrafted creations from talented local artists and makers, all set against a backdrop of twinkling lights and seasonal cheer. It’s the ideal way to shop local, support Baltimore’s artisans, and find gifts that feel as special as the season itself.
Here’s a list of seven must-shop makers markets that are bound to get you into the festive spirit. Check them out when you stay with us at Rachael's Dowry Bed and Breakfast this holiday season.
1. Christmas Village in Baltimore
From November 23 through Christmas Eve, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor becomes a winter wonderland at the Christmas Village. Modeled after Germany’s beloved Christkindlmarkts, this open-air market is a visual treat, with dozens of wooden booths offering everything from handmade ornaments to cozy scarves. Vendors serve mulled wine, warm pretzels, and bratwursts to keep you warm, and the highlight is "The Pyramid," a massive 30-foot-high German Christmas tower decked with 3,000 sparkling lights. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Europe without leaving Baltimore.
2. Bazaart at the American Visionary Art Museum
On November 29-30, stop by Bazaart at the American Visionary Art Museum for a truly creative shopping experience. This unique holiday marketplace is known for its one-of-a-kind creations, where 50 regional artists showcase their handmade jewelry, sculpture, apparel, and other original works. The blend of eclectic artistry and holiday spirit has made Bazaart a Baltimore holiday tradition and a favorite for art lovers seeking special gifts.
3. Hampden Holiday Markets
Head to Baltimore's Hampden neighborhood on November 30 and December 21 for the annual holiday market at the historic St. Luke’s Church. This market is highly curated, featuring two floors with 40 local artists and crafters, along with live jazz music, poetry readings, and hot soups and drinks to keep you cozy. If you’re there in December, take a stroll over to see the Miracle on 34th Street, Hampden’s famous, over-the-top light display, which has been dazzling visitors for more than seven decades.
4. Highlandtown Holiday Night Market
Highlandtown’s Holiday Night Market is a must for those who love Baltimore’s local flavor. Taking place on December 6 at the Creative Alliance in The Patterson, this market has about two dozen vendors selling locally made art, gifts, and holiday decor — perfect for holiday gift giving or as a souvenir from your Baltimore getaway. It’s also part of Highlandtown’s First Friday Art Walk, and the evening culminates in the annual tree lighting ceremony—a wonderful way to celebrate the season.
5. Holiday Makers Market at Harborplace
For a vibrant holiday shopping experience, visit the Holiday Makers Market at Harborplace Light Street Pavilion on December 7-8. Here, you’ll find over 60 local brands, from modern streetwear to self-care products and charming Baltimore-inspired souvenirs. There are interactive art exhibits, vintage and artisan vendors, delicious food options, and a dazzling light sculpture that will make your shopping experience truly magical. It's a waterfront winter wonderland you won't want to miss.
6. MICA's Holiday Art Market
From December 7-8, the Maryland Institute College of Art hosts a three-floor holiday market on its campus, giving students, alumni, and faculty a chance to showcase their artistic talents. This market is perfect for art lovers, with a range of goods that includes ceramics, paintings, jewelry, and apparel, all crafted by the MICA community. It’s a great opportunity to support Baltimore’s next generation of artists.
7. Holiday Heap
On December 14, the Holiday Heap market, hosted by Charm City Craft Mafia, takes place in a repurposed church sanctuary at 2640 Space in Charles Village. Known for its juried selection of vendors, Holiday Heap is an ideal spot to find unique, handmade items like candles, soaps, pottery, and leather goods. With over 50 local artists and makers, this market embodies Baltimore’s DIY spirit, offering a laid-back atmosphere and high-quality handcrafted goods.