The holiday shopping season is here, and for those in the Denver area, it’s the perfect time to start picking up gifts while supporting local businesses. With Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday upon us, this weekend offers a fantastic opportunity to shop for unique and meaningful gifts at holiday markets across the city. Whether you’re searching for handmade goods, artisanal food, or stylish home decor, Denver’s holiday markets have something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best holiday shopping markets in Denver to visit this weekend, so you can get a head start on your gift-giving while supporting local businesses. Get ready for some amazing deals, festive experiences, and a bit of holiday cheer!
Why Shop Local for the Holidays?
Before diving into the details of where to shop in Denver, let’s talk about the significance of supporting local businesses during the holiday season. Small Business Saturday, which falls on November 30th this year, is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and supporting small, independent businesses across the United States.
- Support local entrepreneurs: Your purchases help entrepreneurs grow and create jobs in the community.
- Unique gifts: Shopping local often means finding one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find at big-box stores.
- Economic impact: Money spent at small businesses tends to circulate within the community, helping local economies thrive.
In short, shopping local not only helps small businesses but also strengthens the local economy, making it a win-win for everyone.
Top Holiday Shopping Markets in Denver
Let’s get into the fun part! Here are the best holiday markets in Denver this weekend that you won’t want to miss.
1. Denver Christkindlmarket
A beloved tradition in Denver, the Denver Christkindlmarket brings a taste of Europe to the heart of the city. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this festive market features over 40 local and European vendors selling everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious food and drinks.
- Special Event: On Small Business Saturday, the market celebrates “Trachten Day and Night.” Visitors who dress in traditional German attire like lederhosen or dirndls get $6 beer and mulled wine refills.
- Dates: Open daily through December 23rd, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday to Wednesday.
- Location: Civic Center Park, 101 14th Ave., Denver.
This market is perfect for those looking for authentic European-inspired gifts or enjoying a warm drink while soaking in the holiday atmosphere.
2. Cherry Creek Holiday Market
For the fifth year in a row, the Cherry Creek Holiday Market brings together over 50 rotating vendors showcasing the best of Colorado’s craftsmanship. You’ll find everything from honey and home goods to crepes and art pieces. Whether you’re shopping for a foodie, a homebody, or an art lover, this market has you covered.
- Dates: Open daily until Christmas Eve, with hours from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday to Saturday.
- Location: Fillmore Plaza, 105 Fillmore St., Denver.
This market is a great spot for those looking to support local artisans and businesses, offering a diverse selection of high-quality, handmade gifts.
3. Clayton Hotel Holiday Bazaar
If you’re in the Cherry Creek area, don’t miss the Clayton Hotel Holiday Bazaar. This free-to-attend event features 20 local businesses selling unique gifts and sustainable items. With a photo-op with Santa and a gift-wrapping station, it’s a family-friendly event that captures the spirit of the season.
- Date: Small Business Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.
- Location: Clayton Hotel, 233 Clayton Lane, Denver.
This bazaar is an excellent choice for those looking to shop sustainably while also adding a bit of holiday fun to the experience.
4. Orchard Town Center
The Orchard Town Center in Westminster offers a holiday shopping experience with a twist. Around 60% of the businesses here are locally owned, providing an opportunity to shop small while enjoying the festive atmosphere. On Small Business Saturday, you can also meet the Grinch for a fun photo op!
- Date: Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Location: 14697 Delaware St., Westminster.
With a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Orchard Town Center is perfect for those who want to spend a full day of shopping and fun with family or friends.
5. Sip and Shop at Town Hall Collaborative
Located in the Santa Fe Arts District, Town Hall Collaborative offers a unique twist on Small Business Saturday with its “Sip and Shop” event. While browsing through various local vendors, enjoy a drink from Queen City Coffee or the Town Hall Bar, and get 10% off your final purchase.
- Date: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Location: 525 Santa Fe, Denver.
This event is ideal for those who want to sip, shop, and discover local brands all in one place.
6. Dairy Block Mistletoe Market
For those near downtown, the Dairy Block Mistletoe Market offers a boutique shopping experience. This indoor market features a rotating lineup of local businesses, showcasing unique gifts ranging from ceramics to skin care products.
- Dates: Saturdays and Sundays through December 22, noon to 5 p.m.
- Location: 1800 Wazee St., Denver.
A great place for those looking to shop for high-end local brands with a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
7. Horseshoe Market
One of Denver’s largest indie craft flea markets, the Horseshoe Market is back for the holiday season. This outdoor market will feature more than 100 vendors, including crafts, food, vintage goods, and more. The market will be open through rain, snow, or sunshine, so it’s perfect for the dedicated shopper looking to find unique gifts.
- Dates: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Location: Highlands Masonic Temple, 3550 Federal Blvd., Denver.
If you’re into discovering quirky, vintage finds, this is the market for you!
Conclusion: A Local Shopping Paradise
Whether you’re in the mood for a European-inspired holiday market, a trendy local bazaar, or an artisan-filled shopping experience, Denver’s holiday markets have something for every type of shopper. By supporting these local businesses, you’re not just checking off your holiday shopping list—you’re contributing to the growth and success of Denver’s vibrant small business community.
So, this weekend, skip the big-box stores and head to one of these incredible holiday shopping markets in Denver. Not only will you find unique, meaningful gifts, but you’ll also help keep Denver’s economy strong by supporting the local makers and creators who make our city so special.
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