The 19th edition of the free Oak Brook Artisan Market at Oakbrook Center is scheduled for Oct. 4-5, with 115 artisans expected, offering a variety of food, fashion items, home goods and art.
Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
“The Artisan Market has become a beloved community event held in the spring and fall, and we see a double-digit increase in attendees each event,” said Serge Khalimsky, senior general manager of Oakbrook Center. “We’ve heard from our event organizer that the event has continued to grow, and they expect their largest attendance to date.”
The 115 expected vendors would be the largest-ever for the Oak Brook Artisan Market, with art, jewelry, woodworking, gourmet food, handbags and accessories, decorative art, Chicago-themed items, sauces and spices, fall wreaths, cards and gifts, chocolate and sweets,| ceramics, plush toys and decor, puzzle art, outerwear, hats and gloves, children’s clothing, and dog treats among the offerings.
“The market has a great mix of vendors, but some beloved items are candles, home goods, and jewelry,” said event organizer Jonathan Smith, of The Chicago Artisan Market, which handles artisan selection process and production of the market itself. “Our curated show celebrates the ingenuity of independently owned, small businesses, who channel their passions into creating one-of-a-kind products.”
Smith said the Artisan Market at Oakbrook Center attracts visitors from all over Chicagoland, along with more than 200 villages and towns throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Khalimsky said Oakbrook Center hosts the Artisan Market because mall management is always seeking fresh and unique experiences to bring in.
“While space is limited, events like this offer a valuable platform for talented local artists and vendors to showcase their work, share their passions, and connect with our community,” he said.
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“The market extends throughout the entire center, encouraging visitors to explore the full property and discover our wide variety of store options. Whether shoppers come for a specific retailer or to enjoy the market, it’s a great opportunity for them to experience everything we have to offer.”
Oakbrook Center hosts the Artisan Market on the first weekends of October and June.
Chuck Fieldman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.