The 10 Best Holiday Markets In DC

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.

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!