The holidays can be a joyous time of year with friends and family. But this season can also be stressful, as you try to find the perfect gift for those you love.
Whether you’re looking for arts, crafts, Texas foods, or gift certificates, our team at The Austinot believes local gifts make the best gifts! So here’s a rundown of the best bazaars, fairs, and markets in Austin to make your holiday shopping a breeze.
Blue Genie Art Bazaar
Blue Genie Art Bazaar takes place for over a month, giving shoppers plenty of time to get gifts for everyone on their list. Blue Genie features items from more than 200 local artists, from paintings and prints, to jewelry and sculptures. Best of all, admission is free!
I recommend setting aside at least an hour to wander around the booths, since there is so much to choose from! Also, don’t forget your reusable shopping bags.
Nov. 22 to Dec. 24, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily (10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Dec. 24)
6100 Airport Blvd. – Website
German-Texan Christmas Market
German-Texan Annual Christmas Market feels more like a festival rather than an art fair. You’ll find handcrafted items from Germany, while enjoying traditional German music, Glühwein (hot spiced wine), apple cider, and German baked goods.
Performers this year include the Saengerrunde and Sunshine Willie Stump Band. Did I mention all purchases are tax-free?
Dec. 7, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The German Free School, 507 E. 10th St. – Website
Gruene Christmas Market Days
Gruene Market Days is held every month just north of New Braunfels. During the month of December, the market takes on a holiday theme. Featuring more than 100 artisans, you’ll find an abundance of unique gifts, from handcrafted items to Texas foods.
If you take your kiddos, be sure to stop to take a photo with Cowboy Kringle! You can find him stationed between The Grapevine and Gruene General Store. And if you stick around until Saturday evening, you’ll catch Cowboy Kringle riding into town as it lights up for the holidays. The Gruene Town Lighting will get your holiday season off to an unforgettably festive start.
Dec. 7-8, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Gruene Historic District – Website
Cherrywood Art Fair
Cherrywood Art Fair is the longest-running nonprofit art fair in east Austin. You can literally spend a whole day at the fair without getting bored of all the vendors, music, and family events taking place.
Cherrywood has become one of the premiere art fairs in town. With artists whose creations range from 3D Art to jewelry, home goods, and more, you’ll undoubtedly find the perfect gift to give (or receive).
Dec. 7-8, 2019 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Maplewood Elementary, 3808 Maplewood Ave. – Website
Hutto Downtown Christmas Fair
For those who live in north Austin, downtown Hutto offers a great family-friendly Christmas fair. This event includes a special kids area with train rides, bouncy houses, rock wall, and snow! The kids area wristband is $10, but the rest of the event is free.
Live entertainment will be going on all day, so stick around to enjoy the performances.
Dec. 14, 2019 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Downtown Hutto – Facebook event
Armadillo Bazaar
Probably one of my favorites, the enormous Armadillo Bazaar is in its 44th year! While this is one of the only holiday bazaars that charges an admission fee, the $10 is well worth it (12 and under are free). Not only will you find anything and everything you need for last-minute holiday gifts, but you’ll also be entertained while doing it.
The incredible music lineup this year includes amazing local artists such as:
- Gina Chavez
- Dale Watson
- Peterson Brothers
- The Watters
- Ray Wylie Hubbard
- Suzanna Choffel
- Shelley King
- Beat Root Revival
- Tomar and the FCs
- Swimming With Bears
- Sir Woman
- Jackie Venson
- …and so many others
If you need to leave, but want to come back later for the music, you can. Just be sure to get your hand stamped when you exit.
Dec. 13–24, 2019 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Dec. 24 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.)
Palmer Events Center, 900 Barton Springs Road – Website
Whether you’re looking for last-minute gifts or an event the entire family can enjoy, these holiday markets are guaranteed to do the trick. Get out there and shop local!
@theAustinot wants to know:
What’s your favorite thing about holiday shopping?