POV: You’re sipping (maybe boozy) hot cocoa, perusing local art, chatting with neighbors, and thinking about the brown butter cookies you have in the oven. C’mon! Doesn't get better than that. Here are the best D.C. holiday markets to find great gifts, and, more importantly, to set your perfect winter ~vibe~
DowntownDC Holiday Market
F Street NW, Downtown
Through Dec. 23
This is my favorite of the two largest D.C. holiday markets — Downtown and Dupont — mostly because they have seriously stepped up their food game. Dirty Habit is slinging cozy cocktails while Don Churro has sugary churros and Kata is serving steaming massive dumplings.
Del Ray Artisans’ Fine Art & Craft Holiday Market
Del Ray Artisans Gallery, Del Ray
Dec. 5 – 21
This is a mecca of seriously talented local artists and makers. I got my favorite coffee mug here last year and plan on returning for a whole set. From print makers to ceramicists, there is something for every taste and price point here.
Holiday Vintage Market
The Line Hotel, Adams Morgan
Dec. 13
This one costs $5 to enter but it means significantly less crowds. Plus, you get to shop from 40+ local vendors including vintage clothing, home goods, crafts, art prints, permanent jewelry, and tarot, all while listening to a live DJ.
Yalda Winter Solstice Market
Brookland Arts Walk, Brookland
Dec. 13
Celebrate the darkest day of the year with neighbors — the sun is coming back! Come hungry and grab some Yalda and Persian inspired treats from local chefs. Then get custom permanent jewelry welded on site, or opt for a less permanent accessory.
Winter Wonderland Market
Wonderland Ballroom (Columbia Heights)
Dec. 13
Wonderland has never hosted an event that wasn’t a banger. Stop by for cozy drink specials, winter decor, locally made gifts, festive art, and some good neighborly conversation. Plus, enter the raffle to support the D.C. Abortion Fund.
Lamont Plaza in Mt. Pleasant preparing for holiday cheer. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
On the Farm Holiday Market & Festival
Edgewood Community Farm, Edgewood
Dec. 13
Gather around the warm around the fire pits at Edgewood Community Farm, drink cocoa and cider, and soak in some holiday cheer. Listen to local tunes, browse gifts and partake in activities like ornament painting and holiday coloring.
Umoja Market
Anacostia Arts Center, Anacostia
Dec. 13 – 21
This week-long “unity” celebration brings together dozens of local creatives and includes interactive workshops, meet & greets, spoken word fests, Santa portraits, a Kwanzaa demonstration, and more!
Make It Mt. Pleasant Holiday Market
Lamont Plaza, Mt. Pleasant
Dec. 14
My favorite place to get handcrafted goodies and delicious treats, Mt. Pleasant’s annual holiday market is small but mighty. The vendors are primarily fine arts, including one of my favorite block print artists. (IG@charlottewood_art)
Procrastinator's Holiday Market
Kraken Kourts & Skates, Brentwood
Dec. 20
Not too shockingly, this is one of the most crowded markets of the year (the holidays really sneak up on you!). This year, it’s part of a larger monthlong community celebration — It’s a Wonderful Ward — with a holiday train, clothing swap, and giving tree.
DIG DUG DIG Holiday Extravaganza
City-State Public House, Edgewood
Dec. 20 - 21
There will be a parade, live music, a holiday themed fashion show for the dogs, a friendly competition between local area bakeries for best D.C. cookie, workshops, food trucks, and more at this new community festival!
