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Holiday markets
Find all your holiday gift and decorating needs at this year's bevy of seasonal outdoor markets.
Christkindlmarket, held annually in Daley Plaza, offers lots of fun for families.
Christkindlmarket
Inspired by a German tradition dating back to 1545, the superpopular downtown market features vendors selling their wares, including a stunning selection of handmade ornaments from Germany. Kids can meet Santa at his tent here and check out the city’s massive official tree. Nov 23–Dec 24: Sun–Thu 11am–8pm; Fri, Sat 11am–9pm. Daley Plaza, 118 N Clark St (312-494-2175, christkindlmarket.org). Free.
Handmade Market
Find funky jewelry, glass pendants, knitted items, handbags, clothing and more. And if all that shopping works up your appetite, pop next door to the tasty Bite Café. Dec 10, noon–4pm. Empty Bottle, 1035 N Western Ave (773-276-2600, handmadechicago.com). Free.
Lincoln Square Christkindl Market
Vendors, strolling musicians, ice sculptures, music, German foods and desserts converge in Lincoln Square, where kids can decorate cookies and create ornaments. Dec 2–4: Fri, noon–10pm, Sat 9am–10pm, Sun 10am–7pm. Leland and Western Aves (lincolnsquareck.com). Free.
Renegade Craft Fair
This “cozy” holiday shopping extravaganza features more than 150 vendors selling jewelry, clothing, artwork, bath products, garden goods and more. Dec 3, 4, 11am–6pm. Pulaski Park Field House, 1419 W Blackhawk St (renegadecraft.com). $10.
Seeds of Change Fair Trade Market
All of the goodies—with none of the guilt—are available at this fair-trade market featuring handmade crafts, coffee, chocolates, soap, olive oil, clothing, toys and more. Dec 3, 10am–4pm. Berry United Methodist Church, 4754 N Leavitt St (berryumc.org). Free.
Tinley Park Holiday Market
Under a warm, cozy tent, shop for handmade creations, sample seasonal treats and listen to live music from local entertainers. Kids can make holiday crafts, decorate cookies and write letters to soldiers. Dec 2, 6–9pm. Oak Park Avenue Metra Station, Tinley Park (708-444-5678, tinleypark.org). Free.
Winter Holiday Craft Faire
Oak Park Conservatory plays host to local merchants, displaying a number of unique gift items. Refreshments are provided as kids take pictures with Santa. Dec 4, 10am–4pm. 218 Madison St, Oak Park (708-848-9661, oakparkparks.com). Free.
