Top holiday markets in Atlanta: Where to shop local this season

It’s that time of year again! Atlantans will be loading up on holiday gifts for their various traditions, and area holiday markets will offer up the perfect handmade wares! Whether you want to stay in town or have a day of shopping outside the metro, there are plenty of opportunities to find unforgettable gifts.

Santa at the Holiday Artist Market

Santa may be the main attraction here, but after you get your child’s or pet’s picture taken with the Jolly Old Elf, you’re free to shop! Over 20 artist vendors will join the regular market vendors at the Peachtree Road Farmers Market in the time leading up to the holidays.

Location: The Cathedral of St. Philip; Website: facebook.com; Date: Saturdays Now-Dec. 14; Time: 8:30 a.m. to noon; Admission: Free

Roswell Christkindl Market

Step out to Roswell for great food and delicious mulled wine as you get into the holiday shopping spirit with vendors peddling potential gifts. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome, and don’t forget to stop for a photo with Santa!

Location: Bulloch Hall Roswell; Website: roswell-christkindlmarket.com; Date: Nov. 22-Dec. 22; Time: Mondays-Thursdays - 3-8 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays - noon to 9 p.m., Sundays - noon to 8 p.m.; Admission: Free

Atlanta Christkindle Market

Traditional German celebrations in the heart of the South! The Atlanta Chriskindle market is a tradition not to be missed. Shop handcrafted gifts and experience delicious food at two locations.

Location: Buckhead Village District, Galleria on the Park; Website: christkindlmarket.org; Dates: Buckhead - Nov. 22-Dec. 24, Galleria - Nov. 29-Dec. 22; Times: Buckhead - Fridays-Saturdays - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Mondays-Thursdays - 3-8 p.m., Galleria - Fridays-Sundays - noon to 8 p.m., Thursdays - 3-8 p.m.; Admission: Free

Arts Alpharetta Artist’s Holiday Market

Browse local artists’ small works - nothing over 16 inches. This is a “cash-and-carry” chance to buy original art - the perfect gift for the holidays!

Location: Alpharetta Arts Center; Website: awesomealpharetta.com; Date: Nov. 23; Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Admission: Free

Serenbe Holiday Market

Find that one-of-a-kind gift for a friend, family member or yourself at Serenbe the first weekend in December! And while you’re there, partake in the seasonal activities, workshops, food trucks and more.

Location: Gainey Hall; Website: serenbeholidaymarket.com; Date: Dec. 5-7; Time: Thursday - 5-8 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Admission: Free

Covington Mistletoe Market

This local shopping experience will showcase area artisans, woodworking, crafts and baked goods. Make the trip to Legion Field in Covington, and knock out your holiday shopping!

Location: Legion Field - Covington; Website: cityofcovington.org; Date: Dec. 7; Time: 6-9:30 p.m.; Admission: Free

Deck the Hall Duluth

A giant slide and a real snow playground make this experience into a true winter wonderland! Come play and stay to shop for unique treasures. Food trucks on site will add further to the day, and there will be carolers, visits with Santa and a free craft for participants of all ages!

Location: downtown Duluth; Website: duluthga.net; Date: Dec. 7; Time: 2-7 p.m.; Admission: Free

Nerdy Wonderland: A Holiday Market

Satisfy your inner geek as you find the perfect holiday gifts designed to cater to your nerdy side. Join other enthusiasts as you explore your quirky tendencies and browse appropriately themed gifts.

Location: The Lost Druid Brewery & Distillery; Website: nerdywonderland.com; Date: Dec. 8; Time: noon to 6 p.m.; Admission: Free

Virginia Highland Winterfest

Come to Virginia Highland to shop and participate in the surrounding activities: Tour of Lights Block Party, Jingle Jog, parade, kids’ corner. Unique jewelry, accessories, art and home goods await you at the gift market!

Location: See website for Virginia Highland locations; Website: virginiahighlanddistrict.com; Date: Dec. 13-14; Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. (check website for other event times); Admission: Free

Decatur Holiday Marketplace & Cafe

Established in 1972, this market is the perfect place to load up on handcrafted paintings, pottery, jewelry, bath products, gourmet food and so much more! Try the treats from the King of Pops, Revolution Doughnuts and Super Taco! food trucks. This community endeavor supports Clairemont students through learning initiatives, teacher grants and more.

Location: Clairemont Elementary School; Website: decaturholidaymarketplace.com; Date: Dec. 13-14; Time: Friday - 5:30-9 p.m., Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Admission: Free