Updated for 2023
'Tis the season for holiday light shows, ice skating, Christmas tree decorating, and more fun festivities! The holidays are fast approaching, which also means it's time to embark on your search for gifts. Luckily, Fairfax County has no shortage of holiday markets this year, from Christmas villages to traditional markets to craft shows. Here's where to find unique items for those you love - even if they're the person who already has everything. Happy shopping!
Northern Virginia Christmas Market
November 10 - 12, 2023
Photo courtesy Northern Virginia Christmas Market via Facebook
The spectacular and award-winning Northern Virginia Christmas Market will feature more than 200 art & craft exhibitors from more than 30 states! Discover a diverse selection of fine arts, pottery, jewelry, stained glass, wood, photography, and fiber arts, as well as thousands of one-of-a-kind Christmas collectibles. “Taste of the Holidays” specialty food vendors will also offer gift-packaged gourmet fare. These tasty homemade goodies are ideal for creating wonderful gift baskets, loading up Santa’s stockings, and gathering those hard-to-find executive gifts. Do not miss the returning favorites, with one vendor, in particular, returning after a three-year hiatus!
Hot Tip: Score $1 off admission and help those in need by donating cans of non-perishable food to the Capital Area Food Bank at the event.
McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival
December 1-3, 2023
Photo courtesy McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival via Facebook
Founded in 1982, the McLean Holiday Art & Crafts Festival is a highly anticipated indoor show featuring art and crafts made by approximately 80 regional artisans, as well as other holiday-inspired activities. These handcrafted works include pottery, glass, jewelry, holiday decorations, mixed media, accessories, wood, fine art, artisanal foods, soaps and skin care, and more. The festival focuses on fine arts and crafts, welcoming both established and emerging artisans. Stay for coffee and pastries or lunch at the onsite café.
New this year, the McLean Community Center is unveiling a special treat for VIP guests, featuring Muffins & Mimosas, with an exclusive early access opportunity.
The PARC at Tysons Winter Market
December 2, 2023
Photo courtesy Celebrate Fairfax via Facebook
Celebrate the holiday season with local makers, crafters, and artisans from the Fairfax County area! Visit the Winter Market at The PARC at Tysons on December 2 for a pop-up shop of local artisans and small businesses offering holiday-inspired goods. The PARC will be transformed into a festive indoors and outdoors winter village, featuring a local holiday market and (free!) snowtastic activities for the whole family to enjoy! Food and beverages can be purchased onsite from local businesses as well.
Fairfax City Holiday Market
Fridays, Saturdays, & Sundays | December 1 - 10, 2023
Photo courtesy Joanna Ormesher via Facebook
The Fairfax City Downtown Holiday Market will be open the first two weekends of December on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Shop at the market of craft vendors as you enjoy Old Town Square in the heart of Historic Downtown Fairfax covered in holiday lights. The festival will include live holiday music, hot drinks, heated tents, gourmet treats, and more! Craft vendors will vary each weekend, so be sure to check out the full list here to catch the vendors that you're interested in!
Town of Herndon Holiday Arts and Crafts Show
December 3, 2023
Over 70 artisans and craftspeople will exhibit and sell their work at this annual arts and crafts show sponsored by the Town of Herndon Department of Parks and Recreation. A variety of handcrafted items and fine art will be on sale including wreaths, jewelry, Christmas ornaments, decorations, original artwork, photography, stained glass, and more. Delectable homemade goodies and treats will also be for sale including cookies, macarons, salsas, and dip and soup mixes, to add extra flavor to your holiday and gift-giving!
Herndon WinterMarkt
December 9, 2023
Photo courtesy Herndon Wintermarkt via Facebook
No need to travel all the way to Germany to visit an iconic holiday market. The Herndon WinterMarkt is bringing the old-world charm of Christmas in Europe to Herndon, Virginia. Shop a delightful blend of holiday food, drinks, gifts, and more - as well as hand-crafted Christmas decorations, woodworking, artwork, and textiles.
Ready to embark on your seasonal shopping spree? You're sure to find something special for your loved ones (including yourself!) at these holiday markets in Fairfax County. If you're still looking for more ideas on where to score the best gifts, we've got you covered. Shop local at these unique gift shops to find other one-of-a-kind presents that'll stand out from the bunch. Be sure also to check out these local bookstores, these indie record shops, these unique retailers, or even a selection of handcrafted items specifically Made in Fairfax (2023 gift guide coming soon!)
And of course, more holiday markets are being added every day. Keep tabs on our events calendar to find out the latest happenings in #FXVA!
