The best part of the holidays is the buildup: Christmas music on the radio, holiday lights strung on homes and businesses, the first snowfall…it’s all so exciting. One of the clearest signs that the holiday season is upon us is the arrival of holiday markets, where local artisans set up shop, selling everything from wreaths and baked goods to gifts for everyone on your list. Despite the pandemic, in-person holiday markets are back in the Capital Region, giving you a chance to get out of your house for some socially distanced, mask-wearing, holiday shopping fun.
Rotterdam Christmas Market
For one weekend only, you can shop for holiday goodies from all the best local vendors at ViaPort Rotterdam’s first annual Christmas Market. Open for last-minute gift-getting from December 11–13, the market will be held Friday and Saturday from 10am-8pm and Sunday 11am-6pm, and vendors will be spread throughout the mall to ensure proper social distancing.
viaportrotterdam.com
Saratoga County Historical Society Artisan’s Market
The Saratoga County Historical Society Artisan’s Market returns to Ballston Spa’s Brookside Museum for its 20th year in business this November 28–December 24. Featuring only handcrafted products by local artisans (think: soaps, ornaments and yummy treats such as maple syrups), the market is open Thursdays noon–4pm, Fridays 11am–6pm, Saturdays 11am–5pm and Sundays 11am–4pm.
brooksidemuseum.org
Shaker Holiday Market
The Shaker Heritage Society was ahead of the game this year, opening up its holiday market way back on October 7. Handmade pottery, jewelry and artisan foods from 80 regional makers abound at America’s first Shaker settlement. Baskets, hand sanitizer and gloves are available to all visitors upon arrival. The market is open Tuesdays–Saturdays from 11am–5pm and Sundays from noon–5pm through December 19.
home.shakerheritage.org
