Holiday shopping season is officially underway, and I have two words for you: Shop Local. Here’s my top picks for this weekend, from holiday makers markets to festive shopping events, including the new Hydda Way: Made in MN Experience at The Northern Express.
Red Wing Heritage is one of many top Minnesota brands popping up at the Hydda Way Experience this weekend at The Northern Express.
NEW THIS WEEK:
Springboard for the Arts launches Ready Made
Minnesota is getting a new way to shop and support local artists and makers across the state year-round with Springboard for the Arts’ launch of Ready Made. Ready Made is a new extension of Springboard’s website, which allows people to easily discover handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces by local artists and makers across Minnesota who have worked with the St. Paul–based not-for-profit arts service organization in some capacity. They’ll be adding new makers regularly to create a year-round platform for artists. Shop now @ springboardforthearts.org/ready-made
Now open: Arlo
First launching as an online shop in early 2020, Arlo opened its first brick-and-mortar store over the weekend. Arlo offers a mix of vintage and new femme clothing and accessories, curated into capsule wardrobe collections for easy outfits. Plus, every other Wednesday, tune in on their Instagram @shoparlo_ for their latest drop, a mix of vintage finds and new pieces in limited sizing and quantities. Now open @ 21 SE 4th St, Minneapolis, shoparlo.com. Hours: Tuesday–Friday 11am–5pm, Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday noon–5pm
Artisan Venture Lab launches Sir Short John
If you spend any time outdoors in Minnesota during the winter, you'll know that long johns are a must for your winter wardrobe. But if you're anything like me, you'll find the added bulk and bunching is not the most comfortable or best look. Enter Sir Short John—a new brand created by Minnesota-based brand developer Artisan Venture Lab. The line of "short johns" are made to increase and maintaince your core body temperature, minus the bunching. The soft-yet-supportive shorts are made with 100% honeycomb waffle knit cotton, feature four-way stretch, a no-roll, triple-stitched waistband, and sturdy, double-stitched leg openings. Priced at $34.99, they’re available in sizes XS–XL in both "Fly Zone" and "No Fly Zone" (read: masc and femme) options. Shop now @ sirshortjohn.com
Urban Rooster Shop launches holiday assortment
Find handcrafted gifts from a dozen Minnesota brands on one website all season long with Urban Rooster, an online shop founded last year by two former Target execs who want to help small local retailers market their goods. The new holiday assortment includes jewelry, leather handbags, kids’ toys, home goods, specialty food gifts and more from brands and retailers such as MEND Jewelry, Legacy Toys, Strange & Co, Maddy & Maize, Kisa Boutique and Arway Bags. Shop now @ urbanroostershop.com
WEDNESDAY–SUNDAY:
A Merry Makers Studio Holiday Pop-up
True North Collaborative, a partnership of local brands with a mission to strength small business economy through experiential retail, is hosting a holiday pop-up that runs through the holiday season. It features festive installations, opportunities to make your own gifts, and goods from Minnesota makers and brands that give back, including Fair Anita Fair Trade accessories, North Mallow artisan marshmallows, Corazon Clothing, GiftyWrap wrapping paper, Nashipai jewelry and Twiggy Fresh bamboo toothbrushes. Wednesdays–Sundays through 12/19 @ Seven Points, 3001 Hennepin Ave S, Minneapolis, truenorthcollaborative.com/merry
THURSDAY:
Stephanie Dillon & Citizen-T Holiday Celebration & Shopping Event
This event hosted by artist and Citizen-T founder Stephanie Dillon is a holiday celebration of art ad sustainable style. It will feature a fashion show styled by Grant Whittaker, cocktails and canapés from Fhima’s, original artwork for sale by the artist, and sustainable fashions by Citizen-T, benefiting modaCARES foundation and M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital. Thursday 4–8pm, fashion show at 5:30pm @ Stephanie Dillon Art Gallery, Shops at West End, 1651 Park Place Blvd, St Louis Park, stephaniedillonart.com & citizen-t.com
MartinPatrick3 Holiday Party
For a wintry night filled with socializing, sips, sophistication and more, check out North Loop luxury retailer MartinPatrick3’s annual holiday party. Small bites and refreshments will be provided along with plenty of holiday cheer. Thursday 5–8pm @ MartinPatrick3, 212 3rd Ave N, Minneapolis, facebook.com
First Thursday at Northrup King Building
First Thursdays are part of a long tradition of monthly events at NKB—the largest building of artist studios in the state of Minnesota—which opens for the public to tour studios, meet the artists, and shop the art. Style highlights include Strey Collective, a cooperative boutique featuring goods from a collective of local fashion makers (#179), milliner Celina Kane with her latest headwear for the holidays (#225) and Larissa Loden jewelry (#265). Masks are required. Thursday 5–9pm @ Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson St NE, Minneapolis, facebook.com
Late Night Date Night @ Serge & Jane
Grab your guy or girlfriends for a late-night shopping event at Serge & Jane, an independent men's and women's lifestyle boutique near 50th & France and Linden Hills. Shop the boutique’s selection of clothing and accessories, pet goods, home goods, goods from local makers, and new and used vinyl, cross some items off your holiday shopping list, enjoy craft cocktails, and peruse a special local jewelry pop-up from Love Kelly Harrington. Thursday 6–8pm @ Serge & Jane, 4532 France Ave S, Edina, sergeandjane.com
THURSDAY & FRIDAY:
Bachman's Winter Wonderland Ideas & Inspiration Night
Get inspired for holiday decorating and party decor with this evening of shopping, seminars, refreshments and light bites, and inspiration stations showcasing the latest holiday trends. Explore Bachman’s winter wonderland full of Christmas cheer and seasonal inspiration and take home some finds for yourself. Plus, 20% of ticket proceeds will benefit Washburn Center for Children, a local nonprofit dedicated to children's mental health care. Bachman's is following CDC guidance regarding face masks and distancing. Thursday & Friday 4–6:30pm + additional dates through 12/10 @ Bachman's, 6010 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis. Tickets $25 @ bachmans.com
THURSDAY–SATURDAY:
43rd Annual Landmark Center Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar
Shop goods from over 60 local makers and artisans, including jewelry, decor, paintings, wove and wearable art, handmade lotions and soaps, and more. Plus on Thursday and Friday from 5 to 7pm, receive a free refreshment with admission and enjoy musical performances while you shop. Admission is $5 and supports Landmark’s programming throughout the year. Thursday & Friday 10am–7pm, Saturday 10am–5pm @ Landmark Center, 75 5th St W, St Paul, landmarkcenter.org
ROHO Collective presents Artisan Holiday Market
Shop works of art and handcrafted goods from local artists of color at this market presented by local BIPOOC artist group ROHO Collective in partnership with pop-up retail concept, Chameleon Shoppes. Plus, check out a BIPOC artist–designed selfie museum and find gifts just in time for the holidays. Open Thursdays–Saturdays 11am–6pm through 12/23 @ IDS Center, 80 S 8th St, Minneapolis, www.facebook.com
The Artful Present: Holiday Art & Gifting Event
Veronique Wantz Gallery's annual holiday art and gifting event is back for a series of weekends featuring one-of-a-kind art and handmade gifts from local artists and makers. Look for giftable works on paper by Jim Hillegass, wood fired stoneware serving dishes by Samuel Johnson and Dom Venzant, and popups featuring modern jewelry by Yen Chee Designs, artisan textiles by Amber Jensen and handmade soy candles from Roseline’s Candles. While you're there, be sure to visit nearby retailers UMEI for Japanese home goods and new interior design retailer J. Atelier. Thursday & Friday 11am–2:30pm, Saturday noon–4pm weekly through 12/18 @ Veronique Wantz Gallery, 901 N 5th St, Minneapolis, instagram.com/veroniquewantzgallery
Gamut Gallery’s Raging Art On
For those looking for some truly unique gift ideas, look no further than indie art gallery, Gamut, for its 10th annual Raging Art On “uncurated” holiday gift market. Shop giftable, affordably priced goods, including original paintings, photography, prints, handmade fiber art, jewelry, sculptures and stocking stuffers, from more than 60 local emerging and established artists and makers, including Lora Hlavsa, Manthra Studio, Martzia Thometz, Third Daughter Restless Daughter, Bekah Worley. and Scott Seekins. You can also shop the goods online at Gamut’s website. Masks required. Members-only preview: Wednesday. 5–9pm; Open to public Thursday–Saturday 11am–6pm daily plus additional dates through 12/22 in person @ Gamut Gallery, 717 S 10th St, Minneapolis & through 1/10 online @ gamutgallerympls.com
THURSDAY–SUNDAY:
Haupt Antiek’s Holiday Cheer Market
The occasional vintage market is known for its annual holiday markets featuring a new theme and fresh inventory each month. Look for a mix of holiday home decor, antique ornaments, table settings, festive furnishings, gifts, outdoor decorations, sleds, skis and fresh greens. Thursday from 9am–8pm, Friday 9am–7pm, Saturday 9am–5pm, Sunday 11am–4pm @ Haupt Antiek Market, 7570 147th St W #400, Apple Valley, www.hauptantiek.com
Northern Lights Festival Light Park & Mini Christmas Market
Drawing its inspiration from the wintery North, the Northern Lights Festival is Minnesota's newest holiday experience. Centering around a 25,000+ square foot light park, the festival features a Mini MN Christmas Market, food and drink, photo ops, make-and-take activities, and a Christmas Concert on December 17. Thursday 11am–8pm, Friday 11am–9pm, Saturday 10am–9pm, Sunday 11am–6pm weekly through 12/19 @ Mayo Civic Center, 30 Civic Center Dr SE, Rochester, northernlightsfestivalmn.com
Indigenous Artist Showcase: Buckanaga Social Club
Head up to Grand Casino Hinckley this weekend for a pop-up featuring the beautiful fashions of Buckanaga Social Club, a collective of Indigenous Minnesotan artists and designers. Buckanaga Social Club “strives to produce quality indigenous art, clothing, accessories and essences of Mother Earth that will bridge the gap of the past and future.” Thursday–Sunday 11am–7pm @ Grand Casino Hinckley, 777 Lady Luck Dr, Hinckley, instagram.com/buckanaga_social_club
FRIDAY:
DAUREN Grand Opening
After being a part of Mall of America’s Community Commons multi-vendor retail concept in 2020, DAUREN is opening its own Mall of America storefront. The black-owned, local apparel line founded three years ago by designer Brandon Barnes creates internationally minded streetwear that takes inspiration from the sport of rowing, with products ranging from screen-printed hoodies to tees. Begins Friday at noon @ Mall of America, 345B North Garden, Bloomington, instagram.com/daurenworldwide
Sip & Shop Fridays at 38th & Grand
Head to the 38th and Grand neighborhood of Minneapolis for a series of sip-and-shop events. Participating retailers include The Fitting Room (original clothing and accessories by local designers), Tandem Vintage (vintage clothing and accessories), Belle Weather, Digs (yard, fabric, gifts and jewelry). Fridays 5–7pm through 12/17 @ W 38th St & Grand Ave S, Minneapolis, instagram.com/thefittingroommpls
Foat Design Winter Trunk Show
Head to The Fitting Room boutique to be first to shop the new winter collections from local brand Foat Design. Foat is a textile and apparel design company run and operated by twin sisters, Kaja and Zoë Foat, specializing in eco-conscious yoga wear, ready-to-wear and knit accessories. Pre-shopping starts at 3pm. Friday 5–7pm @ The Fitting Room, 318 W 38th St, Minneapolis, thefittingroommpls.com
STARTS FRIDAY:
Grethen House 40% Off Sale
The designer women's clothing boutique kicks off its 40% off sale this weekend with their first markdowns of the season. Sale starts in store Friday and online Saturday. All in-store sales final, some exclusions apply. In store @ 4930 France Ave S, Edina & online @ grethenhouse.com
FRIDAY & SATURDAY:
Fox Run’s 3rd Annual Plaid Market
Fox Run’s Plaid Market is back and bigger than ever. Find handcrafted home goods, jewelry, accessories, art, apothecary, stationery and gifts from 30+ local makers. including Nashipai jewelry and The Twistery macramé. Plus, enjoy live music every day, craft beer from Omni Brewing, food, coffee, hot chocolate, and adoptable puppies from MN Pit Bull Rescue. Friday & Saturday 10am–6pm @ The Shoppes at Arbor Lakes, 12241 Elm Creek Blvd N, Maple Grove, foxrunmn.com
Atelier 4501 Open House
Two local vintage clothing sellers, Everyday Ejiji and May Baby Vintage, have joined forces to open a new atelier/studio. This. weekend, they’re open to the public for two days. Shop the brands' eclectic vintage clothing and accessories collections of fall and holiday goodies. Friday & Saturday, noon–5pm both days @ Atelier 4501, 4501 34th Ave S, Minneapolis, instagram.com/atelier4501
FRIDAY–SUNDAY:
Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt
Downtown Excelsior will be once again be transformed into a German-style open-air holiday market during the annual Excelsior Christkindlsmarkt. Put on something warm and enjoy holiday foods and entertainment, decor and gift shopping and festive warm beverages. You can also get a picture with Santa, who’ll be enclosed in a COVID-friendly, life-size ornament. To ensure social distancing is met and the increased costs, guests are required to buy a $5 ticket for an hour-long time slot, limiting capacity to 250 people. Face coverings will be required. Friday–Sunday 10am–7pm daily @ Excelsior Commons, 135 Lake St, Excelsior, excelsiorchristmas.com
ASI's Julmarknad Handcraft Market & Festival
Julmarknad, ASI’s Christmas Market, features handmade items by more than 40 talented local and regional artists alongside pop-up performances throughout the mansion, family crafts, stories and festival food. Browse items from ASI’s own Museum Store and Jul Shop alongside distinctive artisan glass, clothing, wood, jewelry, ceramics, and textiles, both indoors and outside the museum. Maker highlights include Artifacts of Joy; Dottir jewelry; Third Daughter, Restless Daughter; and Steller Handcrafted Goods. Family-friendly activities include handcraft projects, holiday story time and an appearance from Tomte Kajsa. Plus, enjoy baked from Fika in festive sheds, cozy up by the fire, and Saturday only, catch ASI’s first-ever Kubb League tournament. Want first dibs on the goods? The museum is hosting a preview night on Friday; special admission ticket required (6–8:30pm, $25–$75). Pre-registration/museum admission is required for entry. Saturday & Sunday 10am–4pm each day @ American Swedish Institute, 2600 Park Ave, Minneapolis, asimn.org
Hydda Way Made-in-Minnesota Experience @ The Northern Express
Creative studio LAB Mpls is collaborating with a group of their favorite local brands and artisans for a special retail shopping experience coming to The Northern Express the first three weekends in December. The Northern Express is an immersive, new holiday village featuring Christmas llamas and reindeers, a Christmas tree forest, Santa’s workshop and visits from Santa, Cedar + Stone’s Nordic Sauna, a Northern Express Mercantile and more. Highlights at the Hydda Way Christmas Market include custom wrapping paper by SheShe and GiftyWrap, an exclusive hat collab by Askov Finlayson, and a pop-up cabin experience from boutiques BlackBlue and Golden Rule, plus The Styl’d Life by Nina B, Red Wing Heritage, Faribault Woolen Mill, Alora Ambiance, Hennepin Made, Essence One, J.W. Hulme Co and more. Friday–Sunday from 11am–8pm daily weekly through 12/19 @ Camp Tanadoona, 3300 Tanadoona Dr, Excelsior. Tickets $20–$40 adults (less for kids) @ labmpls.com/hydda-way
Keg & Case Holiday Market
The Keg & Case food hall is back with its holiday market for the first three weekends in December. Find carolers, Sundays with Santa, and local artisan pop-ups from more than 30 vendors to make a one-stop shop for all your holiday gift-giving needs. Plus, their Christmas tree lot will be open seven days a week with trees, wreaths, swags and garlands. Friday & Saturday 11am–9pm &. Sunday 11am–8pm weekly through 11/19 @ Keg & Case West 7th Market, 928 7th St W, St Paul, kegandcase.com
Local Maker Pop-ups at The Future
The local metaphysical shop is hosting a series of holiday popups throughout the holiday season. This weekend, find Restora Personal Wellness (Friday), Sarah Yribar jewelry (Saturday) and Malachite Leather (Sunday). Mark your calendars for UMSF Preserves (12/11), Ever Wild Herbal (12/12) and Wrapture wrapping paper by Chris Larson (12/18). Friday & Saturday noon–7pm, Sunday noon–6pm @ The Future, 2223 E 35th St, Minneapolis, instagram.com/thefuturempls
6th Annual Nordic Julemarket
Presented by Norway House, the Nordic Julemarket is a unique holiday market with a cultural inspiration taking root in the Christmas traditions of the five Nordic Countries: Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. With Scandinavian-Inspired shopping, traditional folk music, dancing and other festivities, Nordic Julemarket encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to attend. Friday 4–10pm, Saturday 11am–6pm, Sunday 11am–8pm @ Utepils Brewing, 225 Thomas Ave N, Minneapolis, nordicjulemarket.com
European Christmas Market
Find this magical, traditional Christmas Village at Union Depot on the weekends leading up to the holidays. Inspired by the open-air Christkindl Markets in Germany and other European countries during the Advent season, the free market features handmade European crafts and unique gifts from local makers, Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) and European-inspired foods. Plus on Saturday, there will be a holiday tree lighting and movie night from 4:30–9pm. Friday 4–9pm, Saturday 10am–8pm & Sunday 10am–6pm weekly through 12/19 @ Union Depot, 240 E Kellogg Blvd, St Paul, stpaulchristmasmarket.org
SATURDAY:
Mill City Farmers Market: Winter Market
A mainstay since 2006, the Mill City Farmers Market has moved indoors to the Mill City Museum lobby for the season on select Saturdays through April. Each event features 30–40 local farmers, food makers and artisans with a goal of building a local, sustainable and organic food economy. This weekend’s artisan highlights include Barn Swallow Garden (knit winter accessories) and Red Clover Herbal Apothecary Farm. Note: Masks and social distancing are required. Saturday from 10am–1pm @ Mill City Museum, 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, millcityfarmersmarket.org
Holiday Saturdays & Secondhand Holiday Event at Northrup King Building
Browse hundreds of unique and creative works and gifts from local artists and creators under one roof and rest easy with the knowledge that when you buy local, you never have to worry about shipping delays. It's a great year to support Minnesota artists and creative businesses. Highlights include Strey Collective’s new Holiday Boutique featuring 20 small retail businesses. Plus, on Saturday, they’re throwing the Secondhand Holiday Event, a sip-and-shop event (10am–4pm @ #179) with a focus on vintage holiday (sweaters + party/cocktail) attire and home goods from Strey Secondhand vendors Harlow James, Lighthorse Studios, Eco Resale, Thread Finds Mpls and Joeleen Torvick’s Preloved X JT. Saturday noon–4pm plus additional Saturdays through 12/18 @ Northrup King Building, 1500 Jackson St NE, Minneapolis, northrupkingbuilding.com
Holiday No Coast Craft-o-Rama
This long-running indie craft fair has been the reigning king of the holiday craft market in the Twin Cities since 2005. This year’s abbreviated edition has shifted from two days to one, with fewer vendors, spaced out for safety measures. Expect giftable goods from over 40 local makers (including personal favorites A MANO, Third Daughter Restless Daughter needlepoint and PM Design wood and resin jewelry) spanning prints and stationery, ceramics, jewelry, skincare, kids’ goods, clothing, accessories and beyond, plus entertainment in the Plaza, eats and more. Saturday 10am–4pm @ Midtown Global Market, 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, nocoastcraft.com
Create Laser Arts Holiday Studio Shop
The local laser-engraved goods maker is opening up its studio for the rest of the holiday season for a special holiday shop. Find great gifts, holiday ornaments, earrings, home goods and more by the local maker, all created within its studio. Saturdays 11am–5pm plus Thursdays beginning next week 3–7pm through 12/23 @ Create Laser Arts Studio, 2215 Snelling Ave #2, Minneapolis, createlaserarts.com
Tortuga Island Holiday Pop-up Shop
Get some holiday shopping done while supporting woman, LGBTQIA+. and BIPOC small business owners, makers and artists at this event organized by Tortuga Island, an inclusive resource exchange based in the Twin Cities. Find art, clothing, gifts, music and more. Masks required. Saturday 11am–5pm @ MCN6, 1229 2nd St NE, Minneapolis, facebook.com
A Handmade Holiday Market
Join Minneapolis Craft Market at Loring Park tap room, Lakes & Legends Brewing, to meet and shop holiday giftables from local artists and makers while sipping seasonal craft brews. The market is a one-stop shop for supporting local makers. Proof of vaccination or a negative test result is required from all vendors and attendees to participate in this event; masks are required. Ticketed shopping reservations required to control capacity. Sunday noon–5pm @ Lakes and Legends Brewing, 1368 LaSalle Ave, Minneapolis. Reserve your free shopping pass @ www.mplscraftmarket.com
Rosalux Giftyshoppy Launch Event
Minneapolis art gallery Rosalux is kicking off its new "Giftyshoppy" holiday shop this weekend with a launch event. Find everything from statement-making, collectibles gifts to small, affordable, giftable art from its member artists, including Mary Gibney's quirky, one-of-a-kind mini bust sculptures., delicate porcelain sculptures by Betsy Alwin, and satirical quilts by Terrance Payne. Launch event Saturday 2–4pm. Open Thursdays & Fridays 3–7pm, Saturdays & Sundays noon–4pm through 12/23 @ Rosalux Gallery, 315 W 48th St, Minneapolis, www.rosaluxgallery.com
Minneapolis Cider Co Holiday Party & Market
Do some holiday shopping while sipping a mug of hot mulled cider at Minneapolis Cider's annual holiday party. Vendors include a mix of makers and vintage sellers including Mute Vintage, Hausle Shop, Julie Elise Skincare and my very own Rosella Vintage, plus you can also decorate a gingerbread house, play pickleball or ping pong, enjoy brunch, and stick around for live music beginning. at 7:30pm. Saturday 2–6pm @ Minneapolis Cider Company, 701 SE 9th St, Minneapolis, facebook.com
Market Collective MN presents Outdoor Craft Market
Organized by the new Market Collective MN, this market hosted at Bad Weather Brewing Company features handmade and vintage goods by a diverse group of makers and brands, including predominantly BIPOC makers like New Street Co, Chingona Goods and Niara’s Handcrafts. Saturday 2–6:30pm @ Bad Weather Brewing Company, 414 7th St W, St Paul, facebook.com
Homecoming Queen: The Wonderful World of Utica Queen Opening Reception
Homecoming Queen invites visitors to explore the wonderful world of Utica Queen, star of Season 13 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and a fixture of the local drag scene. The exhibition features garments, accessories and original design sketches by Ethan Mundt (Utica Queen), editorial photographs of the Drag Race alum by photographers Ben Seagren, Dan Little, Eric Magnussen, Liam James and Trevor Beaty, and a short documentary highlighting Mundt’s background and creative process by Tatyana Kurepina. This first-of-its-kind 4,000-square-foot drag fashion and photography exhibition will include immersive virtual gallery accessible to visitors worldwide. Opening reception Saturday 6pm ($40, $30 for members), on view through 4/4/22 ($5 museum admission) @ Rochester Art Center, 30 Civic Center Dr, Rochester, rochesterartcenter.org
SATURDAY & SUNDAY:
Plate & Parcel Holiday Market
The Linden Hills Farmers Market moves indoors for the winter and becomes the Plate & Parcel Holiday Market. Held in partnership with Minneapolis Craft Market, this market is a charming, festive, one-stop shop for unique handcrafted gifts, local, foods, holiday decor and Christmas trees. Held in partnership with Minneapolis Craft Market and Wagner Garden Centers, a rotating group of vendors will create a bustling and festive hub of farmers, food makers and artisans. The market is free to attend, and family- and dog-friendly. Masks are required. Free ticketed shopping reservations are required to control capacity. Saturday & Sunday 10am–2pm @ Wagners Garden Center, 6024 Penn Ave S, Minneapolis. Reserve your free shopping pass @ mplscraftmarket.com
Make the Yuletide Gay 2021
Shop goods from some of the best local queer makers from the comfort of your couch during this second-annual, weekend-long virtual market. Find tarot cards, zines, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, art and more from 30 featured queer artists and makers, including Sick Kitty Ceramics, Leesha's Lacquer vegan nail polish, Las Ranas jewelry, New Street Co resin goods, GIgi’s Flair Emporium and Sarah M Holm leather goods. The live link for the market website will be posted on Saturday morning on the Facebook invite link below. Purchases support the disabled non-binary artist who is currently unemployed due to health issues and working towards a graduate Nurse Educator degree. Saturday from 10am–Sunday at 10pm @ facebook.com
Glam Diggers Vintage & Jack Edwards Collection present Rack & Roll
Glam Diggers Vintage is hosting the grand opening of its new studio space this weekend just in time for holiday shopping (and party) season. Find racks upon racks of vintage and special guest Jack Edwards Collection sharing a wide selection of rock posters covering the lifespan of Treehouse Records. (Preview the poster collection at ebay.com; private appointments also available.) They’ll also have a variety of hot and cold adult beverages, bites, music and photo ops. Saturday noon–6pm & Sunday noon–4pm @ Art & Antiques building, 3338 University Ave SE, Minneapolis, instagram.com/glamdiggersvintage
Season's Greetings! A Holiday Season Celebration at Cry Baby Clay
Head to local maker Cry Baby Clay’s studio for two days of holiday happenings. Hand-make your own ceramic ornaments to keep or gift for $10 each (includes firing & clear glazing), get a holiday season portrait taken by On Display Pro ($50 per group for two photos—bring your family and pets!), baked goods for sale from Quiet Cat Bakery and more. Walk-ins welcome, or reserve a time slot to help minimize crowding. Plus, shop Cry Baby Clay’s latest one-of-a-kind, functional ceramics in time for holiday gift giving. Saturday & Sunday 4–8pm @ Cry Baby Clay, 4141 Minnehaha Ave, Minneapolis, crybabyclay.com/community-workshops
SUNDAY:
Holiday Bizarre
This makers market features handmade jewelry, original art, stained glass, ceramics, prints, zines and more from a largely BIPOC, queer, DIY group of artists and makers including Estudio Fermin, Proletariat Alliance, Luna Subrosa and others, plus live DJ sets. Masks required. Sunday 10am–5pm @ The Ivy backside, 2714 & 2718 E 27th St, Minneapolis, instagram.com/estudio.fermin
St Paul Brewing Weekly Makers Market
Shop handmade and vintage goods from a rotating group of local artists, makers and vintage sellers at this weekly indoor market hosted by St. Paul Brewing, happening every Sunday through the holidays. Sundays 11am–3pm @ St. Paul Brewing, 688 Minnehaha Ave E, St Paul, instagram.com/stpaulbrewing
Vintage Holiday Bazaar @ Able Brewing
Shop vintage clothing and home goods from ten vendors while you sip on craft brews at this indoor market at Able Brewing. Vintage sellers include Kollectiv, Mom & Pop Vintage, Hausle Shop, Everyday Ejiji, Maybe Baby Vintage, Salty Mpls Vintage, Norfolk Goods, High Desert Modern Vintage, and my own Rosella Vintage, plus pet goods from Must Be Ruff and holiday wreaths by Kelly Moriarty. Sunday noon–5pm @ Able Seedhouse + Brewery, 1121 Quincy St NE, Minneapolis, instagram.com/kollektivmpls
Dangerous Man & 612 Yoga Holiday Markets
Head to Dangerous Man Brewing and 612 Yoga (located in the same building) for two coinciding makers markets. Dangerous Man will be in the Dangerous Man taproom with handmade giftable goods from local makers, plus deals, bundles and a super sale rack. Then head upstairs to 612 Yoga for their holiday market featuring local vendors. Sunday noon–8pm (Dangerous Man) & 12:30–4:30pm (612 Yoga) @ 1300-1302 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, instagram.com/dangerousman
Old St. Anthony Fall Bazaar
After a year hiatus, Minneapolis Craft Market is heading back to the historic Machine Shop in the heart of the St. Anthony neighborhood of Minneapolis. Shop two full floors of handmade goods, perfect for early holiday gift shopping. Note: Proof of vaccination or a negative test result is required from all vendors and attendees to participate in this event; masks are required. Ticketed shopping reservations required to control capacity. Sunday noon–5pm @ Machine Shop, 300 2nd St SE, Minneapolis. Reserve your free shopping pass @ mplscraftmarket.com
Light Grey Art Lab Winter Makers Market & Sale
The art gallery is hosting a holiday Winter Makers Market with 30+ local illustrators, comic artists and crafters, plus card making, gift wrapping, and holiday treats and vendors including Uncivilized Books, Tenderheart Studio and Cattail Workshop. It also marks the final event at Light Grey Art Lab before it moves out of its space to transition into publication, programming and events, so they are having a huge end-of-space sale with art supplies, frames, mat boards, furniture, fixtures and more. Sunday noon–5pm @ Light Grey Art Lab, 118 E 26th St #101, Minneapolis, lightgreyartlab.com
How Bazaar! Holiday Market
Eastlake Craft Brewery hosts over a dozen local artists and makers for a holiday craft sale in the taproom. Find a mix of artisanal, handmade goods including original art, embroidery, jams, wooden utensils, jewelry and accessories, beadwork and screen-printed apparel. Hosted in The Dugout, between Manny’s Tortas and Soul to Soul BBQ, the market also features baked goods from Quiet Cat Bakery and coffee from Mapps. Sunday noon–5pm @ Eastlake Craft Brewery, 920 E Lake St, Minneapolis, facebook.com
NOW AVAILABLE:
GoodWinter Shop
Fans of retro holiday goods should be sure to check out GoodWinter Shop, a new local brand of mugs, sweatshirts, stationery, and just in time for the holidays, gift wrap and tree skirts, all featuring original mid-century inspired art and illustrations. Founder Andrea Bonhiver is an artist and designer who draws inspiration from 1950s to 1970s design, music and pop culture. Her online shop also sells a curated selection of mid-century vintage home items and vinyl records. Shop now @ goodwintershop.com
Wrapture Artist-Designed Wrapping Paper
The idea for Wrapture came to local illustrator and designer Chris Larson through pandemic boredom—an idea sparked to brighten the days of his loved ones through a series of original wrapping paper designs. Now, with the official launch of his brand Wrapture, he’s making those designs available to everyone in time for the holiday gift-giving season. Each edition includes eight designs on double-sided newsprint sheets—100% recyclable and sourced from responsibly managed forests. Use it to wrap your gifts, or save it for your gallery wall. You can also subscribe to get each new edition of Wrapture every quarter at at 15% discount. ($12 for the holiday edition or $10 every three months for the subscription.) Looking to check it out in person? The wrapping paper is also sold at Minneapolis metaphysical shop, The Future. Shop now @ wrapture.co
Minny & Paul's Holiday Collection
Local brand Minny & Paul partners with more than 100 talented local makers and independent businesses to craft its colorful, curated gift boxes, each with a different theme. This holiday season's gift collection includes four options: Merry & Bright (holiday party-themed treats), Snowday (cozy seasonal drinks and sweets), Rise & Shine (breakfast treats), Merry & Bright Crate (seasonal treats & bar cart essentials). Boxes start at $75. Shop now @ minnyandpaul.com
ON VIEW:
Get Wrapped Up in Holiday Fashion Designer Showcase
Experience the magic of downtown Minneapolis in the historic Foshay Tower with a fresh take of decorating for the holidays. A group of 18 local fashion designers have come together to display their festive, holiday-inspired tree-dresses on mannequins along the W Minneapolis’s main level hall. It’s a great spot to hit when downtown, especially when friends and family come in for the holidays. (And don’t miss the chance to bring them up to the Foshay’s iconic Prohibition Bar on the 27th floor with a view of downtown that can’t be beat.) Ends 1/3/22 @ W Minneapolis, 821 S Marquette Ave, Minneapolis, instagram.com/wminneapolis
Quantum Mirror: A Transcendent Immersive Art Experience
An innovative, immersive art installation has just landed in Minneapolis. Created by Guatemalan new media artist Adrian Stein in collaboration with REM5 Virtual Reality Laboratory, Quantum Mirror is meditation on human consciousness. Its structure is a reflection of self perception, using moving images and sound to visualize how human consciousness has become enlightened by the digital age. Whether you are curious about the future of immersive tech, seeking a unique (and highly Instagrammable) experience, or looking for a creative gift for a loved one, be sure to check it out. On view through 1/29/22 @ REEM5 Virtual Reality Laboratory, 4950 W 35th St, St Louis Park. Tickets $25 @ quantummirrormn.com
NOW OPEN:
The Departments at Dayton's
The long-in-the-works Dayton's Project in downtown Minneapolis is now open with a seasonal makers market—just in time for holiday nostalgia for Dayton’s to kick in. The Departments at Dayton's features more than 30 local vendors on the first floor of the Dayton’s building. Vendors include Larissa Loden jewelry and Karen Morris Millinery, plus several Native American- and Indigenous-owned makers and artists. The market will also sell apparel and accessories featuring the iconic Dayton’s logo. In a nod to Dayton’s iconic holiday displays, the building will also unveil some new holiday window displays designed by Kent Hensley, a former creative director for Marshall Field's, including a tribute to Santa Bears. Hours: Monday–Saturday 10am–6pm, Sunday noon–5pm @ The Dayton’s Project, 700 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, thedepartmentsatdaytons.com
Love Your Melon's Build Your Own Beanie Bar
Local brand Love Your Melon has just launched a Build Your Own Beanie bar at its North Loop storefront. Choose your beanie type, color, patch and pom, and watch your beanie get made. Great for gifting (and keeping)! The bar is available during the store’s open hours, no appointment needed. Hours: Thursday–Sunday 10am–6pm. Now available @ Love Your Melon, 226 N Washington Ave, Minneapolis, loveyourmelon.com
Tare Market Holiday Pop-up
South Minneapolis zero-waste store, Tare Market, is popping up in Northeast Minneapolis for the holidays beginning this weekend. Tare Market is Minnesota's first zero-waste store with a mission of helping others live a more waste-free life through plastic-free and packaging-free goods. Many of their products are sourced locally, and they work with many women and BIPOC brands to bring their plastic-free products to you. Hours Thursdays–Saturdays 11am–6pm through 12/18 @ 945 NE Broadway St, Minneapolis, thetaremarket.com
TMORA Holiday Shop at Russian Museum of Art
The Museum of Russian Art Shop officially opens for the holiday season this weekend. Located on the mezzanine level of The Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis, MN, the TMORA Shop is a gallery within a gallery – carefully curated and beautifully unique. Explore a wide array of winter treasures from the Slavic tradition, including hand-carved fairytale ornaments, tasty treats from the Slavic kitchen, Russian coffee table books, folksy candles and artful greeting cards. Shop the store in person or online. Now open @ The Museum of Russian Art Shop, 5500 Stevens Ave S, Minneapolis, shoptmora.org
MORE OF THE BEST PLACES FIND GIFTS FROM LOCAL MAKERS:
14 Hill Gift Shop
Find unique giftables for everyone on your list, plus home goods, kitchenware & home décor. @ 4737 Chicago Ave. S., Ste. 2, Minneapolis, 612-886-3606, 14hill.com
Bench Pressed
Longtime local mom-and-pop letterpress and design studio is opening its first storefront. The shop will feature their own stationery and greeting cards, letterpress printed by hand with antique equipment, plus apothecary items for body and bath from other small indie brands, home decor and kitchenware, and creative gifts for kids. Now open @ 2010 26th Ave S #2, Minneapolis, benchpressed.net
bread: A unique pop-up market
This holiday pop-up market created by local entrepreneur Marsha Magdalene will feature a mostly BIPOC group of locally owned brands and goods from local makers. @ Maplewood Mall (lower level next to Lids/Caribou Coffee), 3001 White Bear Ave N #1015A, Maplewood, breadpopupmarket.com
Community Commons at Mall of America
Last fall, the Mall of America debuted Community Commons, a new, rent-free space dedicated to BIPOC retail businesses. Vendors include Silk Road Wellness, LVLS House of Hoodies and more. The storefront is also acting as a launching pad for some brands—Herbal Alchemy, a former Community Commons vendor, has just opened its own storefront. @ Mall of America, Level 2 South, Bloomington, mallofamerica.com
Corazon
Find unique, handmade art, gifts, stationery, jewelry, home goods & more by local makers. @ 4646 E Lake St, Minneapolis, 612-276-0198, www.corazononline.com
FORAGE
The East Lake Street shop has announced that December 31 will be its last day of business as a brick-and-mortar. Until then, they’re packed with unique, handcrafted, beautifully designed gifts for the holidays. Now through 12/31 @ FORAGE, 4023 E Lake St, Minneapolis, foragemodernworkshop.com
Founders Co.
This collective of local small business owners, creators and makers—founded by Excelsior Candle Co., B + D Custom Crafts, MEND Jewelry—now have a permanent location at Southdale. Find home decor, gemstone jewelry, clothing and accessories, organic skincare, fine art and modern pottery from 20 local makers, including LES Bags, KISA, Hossle Woodworks and Isadore Nut Co. @ Southdale Center on 1st floor rotunda, Edina, founders-co-mn.myshopify.com
The Golden Rule
Find modern, handmade jewelry, accessories, home goods, art and gifts from local makers and small brands. @ 350 Water St, Excelsior, shopgoldenrule.com
The Grand Collective
Find apothecary, lingerie, jewelry, vintage clothing, hostess gifts and more at this shop owned by nationally renowned laundry expert and Mona Williams’ Patric Richardson, whose Laundry Love book is also available at the shop for sale. @ 791 Grand Ave, St Paul, instagram.com/grandcollectivemn
Greenhouse Salon & Shop
Last week, the Bryn Mawr neighborhood welcomed a new storefront: Greenhouse, a salon and shop. Greenhouse specializes in organic hair care and also sells house plants, plant care, vintage home decor and accessories, and handmade goods by local makers. Hours: Tuesday–Friday 10am–7pm & Saturday 11am–5pm @ 408 Cedar Lake Rd S, Minneapolis, instagram.com/greenhouse_408
Haus Theory
The longtime online vintage seller’s new storefront features hand-picked and restored vintage furniture and home decor alongside well-designed modern pieces, with an emphasis on a less-is-more, intentional shopping experience. You can still shop select pieces on their e-shop, too. Now open Saturdays & Sundays 11am–6pm @ 2182 3rd St, White Bear Lake, haustheory.com
Homespun MN: A Minnesota-Made Pop-up Market
Shop the the best in Minnesota-made gifts for the holidays with this pop-up shops at Ridgedale Center and in South Minneapolis, with each location featuring more than 70 local brands and makers. @ Ridgedale Center, Level 2 in Center Court, 12401 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka & 2709 E 38th St, Minneapolis, homespunmn.myshopify.com
i like you
Find quirky, handmade gifts, pottery, prints, jewelry, greeting cards and more by local makers at this longtime gift shop, which recently moved to a new location in Northeast Minneapolis. @ 1955 Johnson St NE, Minneapolis, i-like-you-minneapolis.myshopify.com
Inspire: Global Gifts for Urban Adventures
Created by local nonprofit, Smile Network, this gift store sells handmade, fair-trade goods by tribal women in developing countries. The artisans get a fair price for their goods and steady income, and 100 percent of the profits from every item sold at the store funds reconstructive lip- and cleft-palate surgeries. @ City Center, 10 S 7th St, Minneapolis, smilenetwork.org/shop
Les Sól
Find women’s clothing, jewelry, accessories, apothecary and gifts from small brands & local makers. @ 4353 Upton Ave S #104 (entrance on 44th & Upton), Minneapolis, shoplessol.com
Mona Williams
This locally owned shop at the Mall of America is the brainchild of laundry expert Patric Richardson, and it’s a great destination for unique gifts and luxe laundry products. The store also carries vintage and designer clothing. @ Mall of America, 180 South Avenue (First Level), Bloomington, monawilliams.com
Moth Oddities
After nearly seven years selling vintage online, in local pop-ups and on the road, Moth Oddities has opened its own storefront. In addition to vintage, the duo sells products by makers (both local and from around the U.S.) who put an emphasis on sustainable practices, especially those from BIPOC & LGBTQIA communities. Open Friday & Saturday noon–6pm, Sunday noon–5pm @ 2201 NE 2nd St, Minneapolis, mothoddities.com
Northland Visions
Native American art and gifts made in Minnesota, the Dakotas, Wisconsin and Canada. @ 861 E Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, northlandvisions.com
Rock Paper Scissors Goods
Handmade jewelry, greeting cards, art prints, kids' toys & more gifts from local makers, plus vinyl records. @ 2403 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, rockpaperscissorsgoods.com
Roseline’s Place
Northeast Minneapolis’ Central Avenue is now home to Roseline’s Place, owned by Roseline Friedrich of local soy + vegan candle maker Roseline’s Candles, an Immigrant- and Black-Woman-owned local business that sells its candles in recycled jars. Roseline’s Place offers their own goods along with a mix of items from other makers, including body butters from Dipp’d in Hunnie, as well as candle-making classes. Now open @ 2430 Central Ave NE, Minneapolis, instagram.com/roselinesplace
Rose & Loon
Goods by Midwest makers, including fashion accessories, food gifts, houseware and more. @ Rosedale Center, 1595 Minnesota 36, Roseville, roseandloon.com
Six for Good
Apothecary, food gifts, jewelry and more giftables from 6 local woman makers. @ Rosedale Center, 1595 MN-36, Roseville & Nolan Mains, 3931 Market St, Edina, sixforgood.com
Stranger & Co.
This new store carries thoughtfully curated home goods, apothecary items and gifts from small brands and local makers. @ 3921 Market St, Edina, www.strangerandco.com
Union Market Mankato
Find apparel and accessories, kids’ items, apothecary, home goods, plants & more. @ 615 S Front St, Mankato, www.unionmarketmankato.com
Uniquely Global
Presented by Chameleon Shoppes, the local pop-up market concept, Uniquely Global offers clothing, spices, cosmetics, fabrics and statement art pieces for any home. UG finds are chosen from around the globe, with offerings including affordable fashion at designer boutique quality, globally sourced spices, handmade statement art pieces and more. Hours: Monday–Friday 10am–4pm daily @ Gaviidae Common, Suite 130 (street level), 651 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, www.chameleonconsortium.com
WALRUS
WALRUS is an artist- and community-led art and consignment gallery and marketplace that opened earlier this year in North Minneapolis. It sells and showcases affordable, framed artwork by local artists. Within the shop, you’ll find pieces priced from $25 to $2,500, about 90% of which is made by local artists. Part of Walrus’ mission is to prioritize the representation of artists of color—out of this 90%, about one quarter is art made by artists of color who are local to North Minneapolis. @ 4400 N Lyndale Ave, Minneapolis, www.walrus.style
VIRTUAL SHOPS & DIRECTORIES:
The List Virtual Makers’ Marketplace
The List is a Minnesota-based online maker hub. The marketplace aims to be a one-stop shop for high-quality artisans, makers and other small businesses, just in time for holiday gift-giving season. Find a mix of fashion, home goods and skin care by 40 top local makers, including Strey Designs, Adam Turman, Essence One, FOAT Design, Hackwith Design House, ILO Design, J.Lux Jewelry, Joeleen Torvick, Julia Elise Skincare, Tiny Loud and Minny & Paul. Shop now @ www.findmeonthelist.com
Minneapolis Craft Market Online Marketplace
You can now shop Minneapolis Craft Market’s roster of local makers online, 24/7, with their online marketplace. Shop now @ mplscraftmarket.com
Check out my Minnesota Vintage Directory, a curated listing of vintage stores and online sellers across the state for both clothing and home.
SUBMIT your upcoming shopping news and events to jahna.peloquin@gmail.com