Discover unique holiday gifts at Boston's Christmas markets and seasonal shopping events. From the Salem Yule Marketplace featuring goth artisans to traditional craft fairs across Greater Boston, these festive markets offer handmade goods, local crafts, and one-of-a-kind treasures. Many markets are free and perfect for finding distinctive holiday presents.
Salem Yule Marketplace
Location: Salem
Dates: December 13-14
The Salem Yule Marketplace at Old Town Hall showcases a curated selection of goth and alternative vendors across two floors. Visitors can explore unique gifts and handmade items from local creators and curators, all set within the historic ambiance of the Old Town Hall. This market is ideal for those seeking distinctive and themed holiday gifts.
Address: 32 Derby Square, Salem, MA 01970
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A curated marketplace featuring a wide array of goth and alternative vendors.
- Located in the historic Old Town Hall, offering a unique and atmospheric setting.
- Explore two floors filled with unique gifts from goth and goth-friendly creators and curators.
Paradise City Arts Marlborough
Location: Marlborough
Dates: November 21, 22 & 23, 2025
Paradise City Arts Marlborough at the Royal Plaza Trade Center marks the beginning of the holiday season with over 170 independent artists and makers showcasing their work. This highly curated event features unique gifts, home furnishings, and live music every day from different bands. Visitors can also watch live demonstrations of traditional crafts and artistry throughout the event.
Address: 181 Royal Plaza Dr West, Marlborough, MA 01752
Phone: (413) 587-0772
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- New England's 'kick off the holidays' tradition, highly selective and beautifully curated.
- A treasure-trove of one-of-a-kind gift ideas and home furnishings.
- Live music with a different band performing each day.
Dedham Junior Women's Club Craft Fair
Location: Dedham
Dates: Saturday, November 22, 2025
The Dedham Junior Women's Club Craft Fair at Dedham Middle School features over 80 juried artisans showcasing unique handcrafted gifts. This community fundraiser includes a variety of crafts, including jewelry, home decor, and children's items. Attendees can also enjoy lunch at the on-site cafe and participate in a raffle for handcrafted items.
Address: 70 Whiting Ave, Dedham, MA 02026
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop for unique, handcrafted gifts from over 80 juried artisans.
- Support a vital community fundraiser with all proceeds donated back.
- Experience a juried show known for high-quality crafters and a fun shopping atmosphere.
Christmas on the Common
Location: Bridgewater
Dates: First Sunday of December annually
Christmas on the Common takes place at Central Square Town Common, featuring approximately 100 vendors in a vibrant holiday market. The event includes family-friendly activities, live music, and a festive parade that concludes at the market. Visitors can capture memorable moments with Santa during their visit.
Address: 66 Central Square, Bridgewater, MA 02324
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A lively community gathering celebrating the holiday season with family-friendly activities.
- A bustling marketplace offering unique holiday-themed shopping opportunities.
- Enjoy live music performances throughout the afternoon.
Central Congregational Church Holiday Craft Fair
Location: Chelmsford
Dates: Saturday, November 22, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm; Sunday, November 23, beginning after Worship Service and ending at 12:30 pm
The Central Congregational Church Holiday Craft Fair offers a diverse selection of crafts and unique gifts from various vendors. Attendees can browse through handmade items, books, puzzles, and baked goods available for purchase. This event also serves as a major fundraiser for the church, encouraging community support.
Highlights:
- Annual Holiday Craft Fair hosted by Central Congregational Church.
- Opportunity to purchase unique gifts and holiday items.
- Support a major church fundraiser with your participation and donations.
Wellesley Marketplace
Location: Wellesley
Dates: Saturday, November 22, 2025; VIP Ticket Holders – 9am entry. General Admission – 10am to 4pm.
Wellesley Marketplace at Wellesley High School is a one-day holiday market featuring over 200 local businesses and artisans. This event supports the community, as 100% of proceeds fund scholarships and grants. Visitors can enjoy a unique shopping experience with VIP early access available.
Address: 50 Rice Street, Wellesley, MA
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A unique, one-day-only holiday market featuring over 200 local businesses and artisans.
- Support the community as 100% of proceeds fund scholarships and grants.
- Exclusive VIP early access shopping experience with a special gift.
Tyngsborough Festival of Trees
Location: Tyngsborough
Dates: November 28 - 30, December 4-6, 2025
The Tyngsborough Festival of Trees showcases beautifully decorated Christmas trees and holiday displays across three historic buildings. Attendees can enjoy live music and browse the expanded Gift & Craft Boutique for unique holiday shopping. The event also features festive workshops and raffle opportunities.
Address: 10 Kendall Road, 216 Middlesex Road, Tyngsborough, MA 01879
Phone: (978) 743-5353
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a charming New England holiday celebration across three historic buildings and outdoor grounds.
- Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the event, creating a festive atmosphere.
- Browse the expanded Gift & Craft Boutique for unique holiday shopping and artisanal goods.
Snowport Winter Wonderland
Location: Boston
Dates: November 7 - December 28, 2025 (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas)
Snowport Winter Wonderland features over 125 local artisans and 20 dining concepts in a festive outdoor setting. Guests can shop for unique gifts while enjoying a diverse culinary experience, including gourmet grilled cheese and French pastries. The event includes special holiday ceremonies, such as tree lighting and menorah lighting.
Address: 100 Seaport Blvd, Boston, MA
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop at the Snowport Holiday Market, featuring over 125 businesses, with a focus on local New England artisans and BIPOC/female-owned businesses.
- Indulge in a diverse culinary experience with 20 food and beverage concepts, including gourmet grilled cheese, pasta, dumplings, and French pastries.
- Celebrate the holidays with special ceremonies, including the 'Light Up Seaport' tree lighting and the annual menorah lighting.
West Acton Village Holiday Stroll
Location: Acton
Dates: December 6, 2025
The West Acton Village Holiday Stroll offers a charming shopping experience with local businesses providing special promotions and festive entertainment. Visitors can explore the beautifully decorated village while participating in a Village Hunt for prizes and capturing moments with Santa.
Address: Acton, MA
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- A charming holiday stroll through West Acton Village.
- Opportunities to support local businesses with special offers.
- Festive entertainment including carolers and Santa visits.
Dickens Festival Holiday Craft Fair
Location: Braintree
Dates: Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 10 am to 3 pm
The Dickens Festival Holiday Craft Fair at All Souls Church of Braintree features a Victorian-themed atmosphere with costumed characters and handmade gifts from local artisans. Visitors can meet Father Christmas and enjoy performances from carolers throughout the event.
Highlights:
- Experience a beloved Braintree tradition that kicks off the holiday season with traditional cheer and fun.
- Shop for unique, handmade gifts and artisanal products from local creators.
- Enjoy free visits with Father Christmas (Victorian Santa) and bring your own camera for photos.
Dedham Square Holiday Stroll & Gift Market
Location: Dedham
Dates: First Friday of December, 5-8pm
The Dedham Square Holiday Stroll celebrates its 20th year with over 50 street vendors offering handmade gifts, festive treats, and live entertainment. Families can enjoy performances from the Dedham High School band, a free snowflake scavenger hunt, and photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus after the tree lighting ceremony. This event not only showcases local artisans but also promotes community spirit through music and activities for all ages.
Highlights:
- Experience the 20th annual Dedham Square Holiday Stroll, kicking off the holiday season.
- Shop at a vibrant street vendor gift market featuring over 50 artisans.
- Enjoy a festive evening with caroling, live music, and community spirit.
German International School Boston Christkindlmarkt
Location: Boston
Dates: December 6, 2025
The German International School Boston hosts a one-day Christkindlmarkt featuring traditional German holiday market festivities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive foods, warm beverages like mulled wine, and browse unique holiday gifts and artisanal crafts. This family-friendly event transforms the campus into a festive winter wonderland, perfect for those seeking an authentic German holiday experience.
Highlights:
- A one-day German holiday market experience.
- Family-friendly holiday cheer and entertainment.
- Opportunity to purchase unique holiday gifts.
Easton Festival of Trees
Location: South Easton
Dates: Opening Day is Saturday November 29 at 11AM. The festival runs for three 'extended' weekends following after Thanksgiving.
The Easton Festival of Trees features a display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees available for browsing and bidding, supporting local non-profit organizations. Attendees can enjoy festive workshops, live entertainment, and a marketplace with local vendors showcasing unique crafts. This community event aims to create 'The Happiest Place in Easton around the Holidays' with activities for all ages.
Address: 265 Purchase St, South Easton, MA 02375
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Browse and bid on beautifully decorated Christmas trees and holiday items.
- Support local non-profit organizations through ticket purchases and raffles.
- Experience a festive atmosphere designed to be 'The Happiest Place in Easton around the Holidays'.
The Umbrella Winter Market
Location: Concord
Dates: December 5 - December 7, 2025
The Umbrella Arts Center presents its annual Winter Market, showcasing unique handmade holiday gifts from local artisans. Visitors can explore a curated selection of vendors while enjoying a festive atmosphere. This market emphasizes supporting local artists and provides a perfect venue for finding distinctive holiday gifts.
Highlights:
- Discover unique, handmade holiday gifts from local artisans.
- Experience a festive winter market atmosphere with a curated selection of vendors.
- Apply to exhibit your work as a vendor for the upcoming market.
Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Fair
Location: Newton Centre
Dates: Sunday, December 7, 2025, 10 am - 3 pm
The Celebrate Newton Holiday Craft Fair hosts over 50 juried local artisans selling one-of-a-kind handmade crafts. Visitors can browse a wide variety of items, including jewelry, pottery, and textiles, while enjoying live music performances throughout the day. This vibrant community event celebrates local art and culture, making it an ideal destination for holiday shopping.
Highlights:
- Shop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts from over 50 juried local artisans.
- Experience a vibrant community event celebrating local art and culture.
- Find perfect presents for everyone on your holiday list.
SoWa Winter Festival
Location: Boston
Dates: November 28 – December 28, 2025. Opening Day (Fri, Nov 28): 10AM – 7PM. Tuesday– Thursday: 4PM – 8PM. Friday: 4PM – 9PM. Saturday: 10AM – 9PM. Sunday: 10AM – 7PM. Mondays: CLOSED. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day: CLOSED.
The SoWa Winter Festival features over 100 local vendors showcasing handmade art, holiday gifts, and specialty foods in a transformed historic venue. Attendees can enjoy live music performances, including a cappella groups and dueling pianos, alongside a Food Truck Bazaar offering diverse culinary delights. This vibrant market atmosphere is perfect for holiday shopping with a local twist.
Highlights:
- Over 100 local vendors showcasing handmade art, holiday gifts, and specialty foods.
- Live musical entertainment including D's Keys and Northeastern's Pitch! Please a cappella group.
- Specialty food and cocktails available from curated vendors and food trucks.
GLTPO Holiday Craft Fair
Location: Tyngsborough
Dates: November 15, 2025, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM EST
The GLTPO Holiday Craft Fair features over 50 vendors offering a wide range of handmade crafts and holiday gifts. This fair is an excellent opportunity for shoppers to discover unique items perfect for holiday gifting. The event creates a lively atmosphere, showcasing local talent and craftsmanship.
Address: 250 Pawtucket Blvd, Tyngsborough, MA 01879
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Over 50 vendors offering a wide array of handmade crafts and holiday gifts.
- An ideal opportunity to find perfect gifts for loved ones or a special treat for yourself.
- Shop for unique, handmade gifts and decorations from over 50 local artisans.
Norwood Holiday Market
Location: Norwood
Dates: Saturday, December 6, 2025
The Norwood Holiday Market includes artisan vendors offering unique holiday gifts and artisanal products. Visitors can enjoy browsing handmade crafts and festive decorations while sampling seasonal treats and warm beverages in a community-focused market. This vibrant event is ideal for those looking to find special holiday items.
Highlights:
- Shop for unique holiday gifts and artisanal products.
- Experience a vibrant community holiday market.
- Browse unique handmade crafts and gifts from local artisans.
Marblehead Christmas Walk
Location: Marblehead
Dates: December 4 - December 7, 2025
The Marblehead Christmas Walk celebrates its 54th year with a weekend of festive events, including Santa's arrival by lobster boat and a lively Christmas Walk Parade. Attendees can enjoy activities such as the Holiday Shopping Preview Night and the Annual Tree Lighting ceremony. This signature New England event showcases the historic charm of Marblehead during the holiday season.
Highlights:
- Celebrate the 54th Annual Marblehead Christmas Walk & Holiday Stroll.
- Enjoy a weekend packed with festive events from Thursday to Sunday.
- Experience a signature New England holiday happening.
Cape Ann Makers Holiday Market
Location: Gloucester
The Cape Ann Makers Holiday Market showcases local artisans from Gloucester, Essex, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport, offering unique handmade gifts and artisanal products. Visitors can engage with makers to learn about their creative processes while shopping in a curated market experience that supports local economy and craftsmanship.
Address: Harbor Loop, Gloucester, MA 01930
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop for unique, locally-made holiday gifts and artisanal products.
- Support talented makers from Gloucester, Essex, Manchester-by-the-Sea, and Rockport.
- Enjoy a curated market experience focused on quality and local economy.
Hingham for the Holidays
Location: Hingham
Dates: Christmas in the Square: First Friday in December, 5-8 PM. Holiday Festivities: Saturdays in late November and December.
Downtown Hingham hosts the popular Hingham for the Holidays event, featuring the Christmas in the Square tradition with Santa's arrival. Visitors can enjoy horse-drawn hayrides, shop for unique gifts, and participate in festive Saturday events throughout late November and December. The market also showcases ice sculptures and includes a menorah lighting ceremony on select Saturdays, enhancing the holiday shopping experience.
Address: Hingham, MA 02043
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience the beloved Christmas in the Square tradition with Santa's arrival.
- Participate in festive Saturday events throughout late November and December.
- Discover unique gifts and holiday cheer while shopping in downtown Hingham.
Annisquam Sewing Circle Christmas Fair
Location: Gloucester
Dates: First Saturday in December
The Annisquam Sewing Circle Christmas Fair takes place at Annisquam Village Hall, showcasing handmade crafts and gifts created by dedicated members. Attendees can browse a wide array of unique holiday gifts and enjoy a selection of festive baked goods perfect for gatherings. The historic venue adds to the charm of this community-focused event, emphasizing local craftsmanship and creativity.
Address: 34 Leonard St., Gloucester, MA 01930
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Shop for handmade holiday gifts and decorations crafted by dedicated members.
- Enjoy a festive community gathering at the historic Annisquam Village Hall.
- Browse a wide array of handmade crafts and unique Christmas gifts created by members throughout the year.
Middle Street Walk
Location: Gloucester
Dates: December 14, 2024 (specific times vary by activity)
The Middle Street Walk event invites attendees to enjoy a day filled with holiday activities across several historic locations. Visitors can browse local crafts, fine art, and holiday cookies at the Unitarian Universalist Church Holiday Fair, while also participating in a gingerbread creation contest and enjoying live music at the Sargent House Museum. The event culminates with the lighting of a unique Lobster Trap Tree, making it a distinctive holiday experience.
Address: Gloucester, MA
Website: Visit Website
Highlights:
- Experience a day filled with diverse holiday activities across multiple historic locations.
- Browse local crafts, fine art, and holiday cookies at the Unitarian Universalist Church Holiday Fair.
- Enjoy festive food and live music within the historic Sargent House Museum.
Salem Holiday Shoppes at Tuscan Village
Location: Salem
Dates: Specific dates for the Holiday Shoppes are not explicitly stated for 2025, but it is a seasonal event typically held in late fall/early winter.
At Tuscan Village, the Salem Holiday Shoppes feature over 50 local artisans and specialty shops offering unique holiday gifts. Visitors can explore a wide selection of apparel, home goods, jewelry, and handmade crafts while enjoying a festive atmosphere with numerous restaurants and local food vendors. This market provides a comprehensive shopping experience for those seeking distinctive holiday items.
Highlights:
- Over 50 curated local artisans and specialty shops offering one-of-a-kind holiday gifts.
- A festive atmosphere with over 20 restaurants and local food vendors.
- Browse over 50 curated local artisan and specialty shops for unique holiday gifts.
Resources
Helpful information and links for planning your holiday season in Boston.