There’s something about a handmade gift that feels extra special to unwrap. Maybe it’s because an art piece is loaded with thoughtful intention — not only from you in picking it out, but also from the person who created it.
Dozens of art shows and markets around Indy are popping up to help you bring an artistic flair to your holiday gifting. Local artists and makers will be peddling everything from oil paintings to handcrafted jewelry to artisan baked goods.
Here are just a few holiday art markets where you’re sure to find unique gifts for the most special people on your list.
Ujamaa’s Blackity Black Friday Vendor Event
🗓️ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 28
📍 Ujamaa Community Bookstore, 2424 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St.
Shop from 20+ local Black-owned businesses; visit between 12 and 2 p.m. for facepainting and a visit from Kwanzaa Claus.
The Eiteljorg Museum’s Winter Markets
🗓️ 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29
📍 Eiteljorg Museum, 500 W. Washington St.
After browsing the museum and the beloved Jingle Rails exhibit, you can shop gifts like artwork, candles and sculptures from Native and local artists.
Herron Winter Market
🗓️ Noon to 5 p.m. Dec. 3
📍 Eskenazi Hall, 735 W. New York St.
🎟️ Free admission
Shop affordable art from local college students before they get famous. Make sure to bring your wallet; all vendors will accept cash, but only some will accept card or mobile payments.
Harrison Center Winter Artisan Market
🗓️ 5-9 p.m. Dec. 5
📍 Harrison Center, 1505 N. Delaware St.
🎟️ Free admission
Find everything from baked goods to ceramics to watercolor paintings at this showcase of 40+ local artists.
The evening also marks the opening of the Annual Color Show, featuring dozens of pieces incorporating the color gold and inspired by the “Golden Ticket” theme — also available for purchase.
One Piece Show
🗓️ Dec. 5-28
📍Schwitzer Gallery inside Factory Arts District, 1125 E. Brookside Ave.
🎟️ Free admission
This 18th annual group art show includes submissions from 60+ artists in media including paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, sculptures, glass and more. The show is open through Dec. 28.
There’s an opening night reception 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. If you want to learn more about the art you’re buying, you can attend a panel discussion at 2 p.m Saturday, Dec. 6.
During opening weekend, you can also check out the Factory Arts District’s All Decked Out Market. The market features 55+ vendors and 120+ artists, plus photo ops with Santa in a vintage 1921 Buick.
Midwest Charm’s Christmas Market
🗓️ 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 6
📍 Milk & Honey Coffeehouse, 8505 Southeastern Ave.
Sip on wintery coffee drinks as you explore wares including clothes, jewelry and candles from local makers. You can also make your own ornaments and charm necklaces or get your ears pierced, plus wrap your newly acquired gifts at a self-serve wrapping station.
Indianapolis Bizarre Holiday Market
🗓️ 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6
📍 550 S. Audubon Road
If your ideal Christmas is a little nightmarish, you can find ghoulish gifts and presents including taxidermy and crystals at this market featuring 30 local artists.
Big Gay Holiday Market
🗓️ 4-8 p.m. Dec. 13 and 1-5 p.m. Dec. 14
📍 The AMP at 16 Tech, 1220 Waterway Blvd.
🎟️ Free admission
More than 100 LGBTQ+ makers will showcase their work at this market, which also features community resource tables.
Tinker House Oh Sh*t
🗓️ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14
📍 Tinker House Events, 1101 E. 16th St.
🎟️ Free admission
Whether you’re a procrastinator or just want to treat yourself after crossing everyone else off your list, Tinker House’s mid-December market has you covered. Grab a coffee from Provider and listen to live music while browsing vintage and handmade goods from 20+ local vendors.
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Shea Stapley is a Mirror Indy freelance contributor. You can reach her at sheajuliestapley@gmail.com.
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