As the leaves change and drop, cozy sweaters replace T-shirts and shorts, and the crisp air makes summer feel like a distant memory, Fayetteville celebrates the season with holiday markets. These markets showcase the city’s progressive, sustainable culture with locally made arts, crafts, and food, plus secondhand goods like vintage clothing and collectibles — so you can fulfill all your gift-giving needs in one place. But even if you don’t buy anything, you’ll get to enjoy a festive atmosphere and connect with others (and, dare we say, this is what this time of year is all about?) Here are all the holiday markets you won’t want to miss.
NWA Fiber Festival
When: November 17-18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days
Where: The Thompson Hall building at the Washington County Fairgrounds
Quality handmade gifts abound at the NWA Fiber Festival. This event connects fiber arts enthusiasts with vendors specializing in hand-dyed yarn and accessories, pottery, crocheted items, hand-woven baskets, and woodworking. Proceeds will support 4-H youth development through scholarships, workshops, and camps, so you’ll be shopping for a good cause. RV spots are available for those who want to stay on-site.
Fruitcake Holiday Market
When: November 18, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Fayetteville Town Center
It’s adults-only at Fruitcake Holiday Market, where patrons 18 and up can partake in a full-scale holiday experience. Aside from a slew of craft vendors, the event will feature free bingo (hosted by local celebrities), live tattooing from Paper Doll Tats, custom cocktails from Kiera Maserati, a photo booth and pop-up from Cheap Thrills, and a performance from Taylor Madison Monroe. Early access tickets will be available the morning of, starting at 11 a.m., and the first 100 people to secure these will receive a goody bag. General admission tickets will also be available at the door.
Likewise Winter Market
When: November 19, 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Likewise Community + Coworking
Local coworking space Likewise will host their annual Winter Market this season. Handcrafted goods available for purchase include digital artwork from Cloud Caite, handmade jewelry from Suci Jewels, original paintings by Dea Self, eco-minded T-shirts from Natural Threads, and many more. Don’t miss the chance for a photo op with Mx Claus.
The Mitzvah Holiday Art Market
When: December 1, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Fayetteville Town Center
With over 50 local artists and artisans, the Mitzvah Holiday Art Market boasts a variety of one-of-a-kind gifts. While you wander the stalls, you can sample holiday-themed cocktails and snacks and listen to the sounds of local jazz duo Matt Smith and George Mason. Pair your visit to this market with a stroll around the Lights of the Ozarks for a hefty dose of holiday cheer.
Wampus Wonderland
When: December 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Mount Sequoyah
Beloved craft show Wampus Wonderland returns this year. Held at the Mount Sequoyah Center, this event is set to feature work from local ceramic artists, illustrators, jewelers, and other majors and creators. Socialize, shop, and nibble on tasty treats — there are rumored to be a few holiday surprises happening, too.
The Little Craft Show
When: December 2, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Fayetteville Town Center
Operating since 2011, the Little Craft Show highlights some of the best in arts, crafts, and artisanal products from Fayetteville. You could spend hours searching for hidden treasures here, with vendors selling everything from stained glass art to clay sculptures to mixed metal objects.
The CCC Annual Holiday Market
When: December 3 through December 18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Community Creative Center
Soak up the magic of the season at the CCC Annual Holiday Market, where local artists and artisans will sell their pieces to the public. Those who attend on December 3 (Open House) will be treated to hot cider, cocoa, and holiday snacks. Considering the sheer number of unique creations here, you’re bound to find something for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
FayetteVINTAGE Winter Market
When: December 15, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Fayetteville Town Center
Vintage fans will have a field day at the FayetteVINTAGE Winter Market. A curated selection of secondhand vendors and local artisans will offer their wares, alongside hourly raffles, giveaways, and a photo booth. Live music, a cash bar, and delicious food top off this fun-filled event. Ticket prices run the gamut from $5 for general admission to $25 for the VIP Platinum Package (which comes with a drink ticket, a swag bag, raffle entry, and VIP lounge access).
Happy Holidays and thanks for supporting local in Fayetteville!
