Chicago holiday markets

There’s nothing like a local holiday market to get you out of the malls and into a bespoke, fun gift for Aunt Gertrude. And if you’re lucky, there’s a little mulled wine, too.

Here are some choice Chicago holiday markets and popups to get you all those (and I’ll keep updating!):

Christkindlmarket (Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville) is the standard. Running Nov. 15-Dec. 23, you’ll find nutcrackers, cuckoo clocks and beer steins, and goods from all over the world. Check out the Glühwein, sausage, potato pancakes, roasted nuts and so much more.

Late Night on Chicago is Nov. 21 and Dec. 19, 7-9 p.m. in West Town, where all of your favorite shops are open with discounts and treats as you shop.

Randolph Street Market (1340 W. Washington St.) is back Nov. 23-24 and Dec. 14-15 with vintage and handmade goodies like men’s and women’s clothing, furniture, home goods and more. 125+ vendors, free on-site gift wrapping and a free trolley from Water Tower Place to the market. $8-10, and it’s better to buy tickets online before you get there.

Lycée Français de Chicago French Market (1929 W Wilson) is Dec 2-4. think 70 local and French artisan vendors selling everything from clothing to accessories, jewelry, home goods, gourmet food and more! There is drop-off childcare for a special rate at special hours of the market. Daily admission is $8 for adults and free for children, or $15 for a one-day pass for two adults. 

Sauced—The Night Market Before Xmas features 50 food, art and retail vendors on two floors of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel (12 S Michigan Ave). Tues., December 10, 5-10 p.m., free.

Chicago Art Girls Holiday Pop-Up Shop (3730 N Oakley Ave) features curated gifts from more than 40 local artists: fine art, clothing, jewelry and accessories, glass, ceramics, stationery, body care, mixed media and gourmet food. 

Proceeds from a raffle will benefit Common Pantry, a Chicago organization providing emergency food and social services. Donate money, or bring non-perishable packaged food items (wishlist is online at www.commonpantry.org). Dec. 14-15, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., free.

Handmade Market Chicago returns to The Empty Bottle (1035 N. Western) with jewelry, handbags, clothing, hot sauce, candles and more from nearly 30 vendors. Dec. 14, noon-4 p.m.