You’ve made your list and checked it twice, but you’re drawing a blank on what to actually gift this year. Look no further than Chicago’s countless pop-up shops and markets for a creative edge. From a cozy craft fair that brings Etsy to life to an outdoor market with holiday spirit galore, we picked seven of our favorites to help you up your giving game this year.
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NOW THROUGH DEC. 24
Daley Plaza
50 W. Washington St.
This open-air market, inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, celebrates its 21st year of offering German and European gifts and specialty items. Grab a stein full of gluhwein (hot spiced wine, nonalcoholic options also available) and an order of potato pancakes before exploring the festive offerings. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Free.
NOV. 25-NOV. 27
Mercado Navideño — Christmas Market
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W. 19th St. 312-738-1503
Peruse handmade items from all over Mexico, such as jewelry, ceramics and textiles. Museum members receive 30 percent off all merchandise. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Free.
NOV. 26- 27 and DEC. 10- 11
Beaux Arts Plumbers Hall
1340 W. Washington Blvd. 312-666-1200
Browse vintage, antique and modern keepsakes from more than 125 vendors at this indoor market. After bargaining with dealers, refuel with a variety of food options, from breakfast goodies to sweets. Don’t forget to take advantage of free gift wrapping and parking. 10 a.m.–5p.m. $3-$10. Tickets: randolphstreetmarket.com
DEC. 1-4
Merchandise Mart
222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor
More than 600 artists from across North America will present their handmade items at this 16th annual market. The four-day fest highlights ceramics, glassware, jewelry, traditional paintings, home goods, accessories and more. Beyond meeting the makers, attendees can enjoy artist demonstrations, workshops, fashion shows, gourmet food and live music. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. $12-$20. Tickets: oneofakindshowchicago.com
DEC. 3-4
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Bridgeport Art Center
1200 W. 35th St.
Browse 250-plus makers who specialize in jewelry, textiles, prints and pottery that are perfect for the hard-to-shop-for peeps on your list. Plus, enjoy DIY workshops and fuel up with food and drink along the way. 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.
DEC. 10 – 11
The Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop-up Shop
Alexander Graham Bell Elementary School
3730 N. Oakley Ave.
Over 40 local female artists, designers and creatives came together to put on this holiday pop-up. Shop unique handcrafted items such as egg nog lip balm from Soap Distillery and eco-friendly lightweight statement jewelry from Veronica Riley Martens. 11 a.m.–5p.m.
DEC. 11
Morgan Manufacturing
401 N. Morgan St. 312-972-8400
Shop like a boss while browsing more than 100 makers, bakers, chefs, designers and artists at this highly curated pop-up market. Holiday shoppers can also nibble on treats from local food vendors. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. $10-$12. Tickets: dosemarket.com/holidose2016