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.
Tampa Bay Holiday Market
Date: Nov. 22-23, 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.
34th Annual Tarpon Springs Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Festival
Date: Nov. 22-23, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Location: 1 N Pinellas Ave, Tarpon Springs
Cost: Free admission
If you like getting your holiday shopping done right after Thanksgiving, but the idea of waiting in Black Friday lines pains you, you’re not alone! Shop small, walk off the stuffing and avoid the lines by heading to the Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Festival in Tarpon Springs the weekend after turkey day.
12th Annual Oxford Exchange Holiday Gift Market
Date: Thurs, Dec. 4, 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 Gift Gala
Date: Sat, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Location: Westchase Town Center
Cost: Free
Shop for one-of-a-kind gifts at this local curated gift event.
The Holiday Promenade
Date: Thurs, Dec. 11, 5-9 p.m.
Location: Water Street, downtown Tampa
Jingle Bell Bazaar
Date: Sun, Dec. 14, 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.