Minnesota’s Most Magical Holiday Markets to Visit This Season
The snow is falling, the lights are twinkling, and the scent of roasted nuts and mulled wine fills the air, which can only mean one thing: holiday market season has arrived in Minnesota. From European-style markets that transport you straight to Germany to cozy local pop-ups celebrating homegrown makers, these festive gatherings are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season.
Whether you’re shopping for handmade gifts, sipping on hot cocoa, or simply soaking in the cozy charm, here are five Minnesota holiday markets that will make your season bright.
Courtesy of Minneapolis Christkindl Market
Minneapolis Christkindl Market
There’s something truly magical about the Minneapolis Christkindl Market. Tucked into the heart of downtown at North Loop Green, this beloved market brings the centuries-old European tradition of outdoor winter markets right to Minnesota. Wooden vendor huts line the plaza, each filled with handcrafted ornaments, cozy knits, and festive treats. Visitors can sip steaming mugs of glühwein, snack on German bratwurst, and enjoy live music that fills the crisp winter air.
With free admission and a family-friendly atmosphere, this is one of the Twin Cities’ most cherished holiday events — the perfect place to find a gift (or a warm drink) that brings joy.
📍 Location: North Loop Green, Minneapolis
🕒 Date: November 21st to December 21st
👉 Visit Website
European Christmas Market – St. Paul
For an experience that feels like stepping into a European postcard, the European Christmas Market at Union Depot is a must. Modeled after the open-air Christkindl markets of Germany and Austria, this free, family-friendly event features more than 60 local and international vendors offering gifts, crafts, and holiday treats.
Sip warm mulled wine, nibble on roasted nuts, and take in live holiday entertainment beneath a canopy of twinkling lights. Whether you’re a St. Paul local or just visiting for the season, this event captures the heart of holiday tradition, right here in Minnesota’s capital city.
📍 Location: Union Depot, St. Paul
🕒 Dates: November 28 – December 21
✨ Visit Website
Courtesy of St. Paul Christmas Market
Courtesy of Northern Pacific Center
Off the Rails Market
For those looking to mix a little holiday shopping with a weekend getaway, the Off the Rails Market in Brainerd is the perfect destination. Hosted at the historic Northern Pacific Center, this two-day event features artisan vendors, festive food and drink, and live entertainment in a charming industrial setting.
The VIP Night offers an exclusive shopping experience with early access to vendors and special perks, while Saturday brings a full day of family-friendly holiday fun. It’s a perfect excuse to spend a cozy weekend up north, and check a few names off your shopping list.
📍 Location: Northern Pacific Center, Brainerd
🕒 Dates: December 12 – December 13
👉 Visit Website
Minnesota Merry Market
Presented by Homespun Events, the Minnesota Merry Market brings together more than 80 local makers and artists for a festive shopping experience at the State Fairgrounds. You’ll find a lively mix of handcrafted goods, artisan foods, and seasonal décor, plus plenty of opportunities to meet the makers behind the creations.
This market embodies the spirit of Minnesota: creative, community-driven, and full of heart. With food vendors, holiday photo ops, and live music, it’s not just a shopping trip; it’s a holiday outing worth savoring.
📍 Location: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
🕒 Dates: December 12-13, December 20-21
👉 Visit Website
Courtesy of Homespun Events
Make It a Minnesota Holiday Tradition
From the bright lights of downtown Minneapolis to the small-town charm of Brainerd, Minnesota’s holiday markets offer something special for everyone. Each market tells a story — of craftsmanship, community, and the joy of coming together during the most wonderful time of the year.
Bundle up, grab a mug of hot cocoa, and explore the markets that make our state sparkle, all season long.