This time of year, holiday markets and craft festivals pop up across Tampa Bay, offering one-of-a-kind gifts, many of which are made by local artisans. Best of all, several of these markets are held outdoors, allowing shoppers to enjoy the beautiful winter weather in Florida while they shop. Below are just a few markets to check out this season.
Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park
Date: Nov. 22 through-Jan. 1
Location: Curtis Hixon Park, downtown Tampa
Cost: Free admission to shops
Curtis Hixon Park transforms into a Winter Wonderland with stunning views of the Hillsborough River during November and December, including a fun selection of pop-up shops featuring local wares. The Village opens Nov. 22 and runs through the New Year.
Tampa Bay Holiday Market
Date: Nov. 23-24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: The Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg
Cost: Free admission; free parking
Find an assortment of holiday gifts at this shopping event—everything from chocolates and handbags to jewelry and holiday décor. This event is sponsored by the Tampa Bay Times.
Lutz Indoor Holiday Craft Fair
Date: Sat, Nov. 30, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: Hilton Garden Inn, 2155 Northpointe Blvd., Lutz
Cost: Free admission; free parking
Enjoy a festive day of shopping and holiday cheer! Browse a variety of unique, handmade crafts perfect for your holiday gifting needs. Support local artisans and find that special something to make your season bright.
Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Festival
Date: Nov. 30-Dec. 1
Location: 1 N. Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs
Cost: Free admission
Spend the weekend after Thanksgiving shopping for folk art, wearable art, paintings and more at this time-tested holiday tradition. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ThanksgivingArtCraftFestival/about for more info.
12th Annual Oxford Exchange Holiday Gift Market
Date: Thurs, Dec. 5, 6:30-10 p.m.
Location: Oxford Exchange, 420 West Kennedy Blvd.
Cost: RSVP required, but event is free
This market, held in the beautiful Oxford Exchange, is inspired by eclectic and bustling European marketplaces. Discover more than 30 local artisans, find unique gifts and explore their holiday exhibits.
Holiday Stroll Largo
Date: Sat, Dec. 7, 5-9 p.m.
Location: Largo Central Park
Cost: $10 on-site parking
This outdoor market allows you to enjoy the beautiful December temperatures while stocking up on holiday gifts. Food and beverage vendors will be on site and the evening also features Largo’s tree lighting.
Holiday Village
Date: Sat, Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Carrollwood Village
Cost: Free admission
Holiday Village presented by the Carrollwood Village Phase II & III HOAs is a family-friendly event with holiday-themed crafts, activities, food trucks, music, decorations, and more.
Holiday Promenade
Date: Thurs, Dec. 12, 5-9 p.m.
Location: 971 Water St, Downtown Tampa
Cost: Free admission
Enjoy an evening market where you can discover unique gifts and delight in festive entertainment. During this seasonal market on Water Street, shop local vendors and enjoy seasonal activities and performances all under the picture-perfect backdrop of the neighborhood’s holiday décor.
Jingle Bell Bazaar
Date: Dec. 15, noon-6 p.m.
Location: Centennial Park, 1800 E. 8th St., Ybor City
Cost: Free
The largest annual holiday festival in Ybor City is back! Enjoy live music all day, holiday shopping with 100+ vendors, food trucks and Santa’s Village for the kiddos. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there as well. Bring a toy for Toys for Tots and enter a chance to win free prizes.
A Very Merry Midtown Market
Date: Sat, Dec. 21, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: 3659 Midtown Dr, Tampa
Cost: Free admission
Grab last-minute gifts for everyone on your list, groove to remixes of your favorite holiday hits, treat yourself to something sweet from the donut truck, get your gifts wrapped and take photos with Santa and his Elves.
