Must-Vist Markets This Season

December 7, 2023
snowman toy decoration on christmas/holiday market

The holidays are just around the corner and Metro Detroiters are getting in the spirit. Sure, it might be chilly outside, but there’s something about bundling up to enjoy the festivities that makes the cold feel inviting. Forget online shopping… it’s the most wonderful time of the year! Bust out the fuzzy mittens and head over to one of these beautiful, locally-curated holiday markets.

FRANKENMUTH CHRISTKINDLMARKT

December 8 – 10 

534 North Main Street, Frankenmuth

Silverado by lighthouse

Discover new horizons with the confidence of the Chevy Silverado, from busy streets to scenic views.

German Christmas markets are known throughout the world as the epitome of holiday cheer. Fortunately for Metro Detroiters, Frankenmuth’s ChristKindlMarkt brings the joy closer to home. Enjoy some mulled wine while you browse the shops to find your perfect holiday gift. This open-air holiday market is an annual tradition for many, and this year it features over 40 vendors. This family-friendly market is also a great chance to meet with Santa if you haven’t had the chance to yet. 

TANGENT GALLERY AND HASTINGS STREET BALLROOM

December 10

715 East Milwaukee Avenue, Detroit

The Wonderland: An Enchanted Winter Market is set to be a mystical day of art, shopping, and magic for the whole family. The market will have multiple complementary magical winter craft stations for all ages, roaming performers, and several classes throughout the day. General admission tickets are discounted through December 9th, with admission beginning at 3:00 p.m. VIP ticket holders will be able to enter an hour early and receive a magic bag with products and discounts. In addition to tickets to get in, you can purchase passes for various classes that will be hosted during the day, like making your own crystal necklace, winter solstice tea, and crafting your own bitters. 

HOLIDAY MARKET AT EASTERN MARKET

December 10 

2934 Russell Street, Detroit

Detroit’s historic Eastern Market is a timeless weekend destination during the summer months, but there’s no better time to explore than right now. Leading up to the holidays, Sheds 3, 4, and 5 will feature a rotating roster of locally-owned businesses selling a variety of fun gift ideas at the Eastern Market Holiday Markets. You can find Michigan-made gifts, clothing, art, jewelry, and more at this market. This is a free event to attend, and the last holiday market of the season! Christmas tree vendors are located outside of Shed 5 seven days a week. While you’re there, try out one of the many delicious restaurants surrounding the market and take in the incredible murals that cover nearly every building wall in the vicinity. 

HOLIDAY MARKET AT THE ANTON ART CENTER

Through December 23

125 Macomb Place, Mount Clemens

If you live around Mount Clemens, be sure to check out the 45th Annual Holiday Market at the Anton Art Center, where you’ll find unique and affordable gifts, beautiful home decor, and Michigan-made artwork. The market is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Wednesdays and Fridays-Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays. Admission is free, but donations to the Anton Art Center are welcome. Some additional events going on here include an ornament make-and-take session on December 10th from 12 to 2 p.m. and a holiday mixer night on December 14th from 5 to 8 p.m.

DOWNTOWN DETROIT MARKETS

Through January 7

Cadillac Square – right in the heart of downtown Detroit – is featuring holiday pop-ups perfect for snagging that last-minute, locally produced gifts, Wednesdays through Sundays. Clothing, jewelry, candles, home decor, and even pet supplies are all available at almost 20 unique shops. If you’re hungry, grab a bite from the Cadillac Lodge, like a soft pretzel, Detroit-style chili, and hot cocoa, or choose from a variety of holiday-themed cocktails.

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on December 13, 2021, and was authored by Aaron Segel.

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