Chicago and the suburbs are packed with festive holiday markets this year, from European-style traditions to local artisan fairs. Families can shop for unique gifts, enjoy seasonal treats and soak in holiday cheer at both indoor and outdoor locations. Markets run from Oct. 19 through Dec. 24, with options ranging from free admission to $10 per ticket. Each listing includes cost, parking, age fit and accessibility details so parents can plan their visits with ease.
Updated September 2025. All times and costs verified with event organizers. We’ll continue to refresh this roundup as new Chicago-area holiday markets are announced.
One of a Kind Holiday Show at THE MART
This holiday market features more than 600 artists and makers selling handmade gifts in categories like jewelry, kids’ items, art and home goods. Parents can browse while kids enjoy the festive atmosphere, and the wide aisles make it easy for strollers.
Plan It:
- Hours: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Dec. 4–6, 2025; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Dec. 7, 2025
- Address: The Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, 7th floor, Chicago (Merchandise Mart stop on CTA Brown and Purple lines)
- Cost: Ticket info TBA for 2025; children under 12 typically free
- Parking: Paid parking garages nearby; public transit strongly recommended
- Age fit: All ages
- Accessibility: Indoor; stroller-friendly aisles; elevators and restrooms with changing tables available; Organizers do not list sensory accommodations; event may be crowded and noisy.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with One of a Kind Show Chicago.
Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza
Families can enjoy holiday shopping, festive food, and cultural traditions at this European-style market in downtown Chicago. Kids will love the holiday decorations and sweet treats, while parents can browse unique gifts and seasonal drinks. Expect large crowds, especially on weekends.
Plan It:
- Hours: 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Sunday–Thursday; 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday, Nov. 21–Dec. 24, 2025
- Special Hours: Preview event 5–9 p.m. Nov. 20; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 27, Thanksgiving; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Dec. 24, Christmas Eve
- Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago (near Washington/Wells CTA stop; close to multiple bus routes and train lines)
- Cost: Free admission; food, beverages, and gifts for purchase (cash and card accepted). Families often spend extra on festive drinks or keepsake mugs. Souvenir mugs are available for purchase; prices vary by year.
- Parking: Paid parking garages nearby; public transit strongly recommended
- Age fit: All ages; best for preschool through middle school
- Accessibility: Outdoor; stroller-friendly; ADA details not fully listed; expect heavy crowds. No sensory-specific hours are offered.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Christkindlmarket Chicago.
Chicago Artisan Market – Ravenswood
Families can shop unique gifts, try local foods, and meet artisans at this holiday market in Ravenswood. Kids under 12 get in free, and the event is stroller-friendly with plenty to explore indoors. Expect crowds, so it may be busy for younger children.
Plan It:
- Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Feb. 14-15, 2026
- Address: 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago (Artifact Events Building, near Montrose Ave. and Ravenswood Metra stop)
- Cost: $8 advance / $10 door; 4 tickets for $20 in advance; kids under 12 free. Two paying adults with children under 12 free would cost $16–$20 total, based on posted ticket prices.
- Parking: Limited street parking; nearby paid lots; Metra Ravenswood stop within walking distance
- Age fit: All ages; best for elementary and up
- Accessibility: Indoor; stroller-friendly; restrooms available. ADA and sensory accommodations not listed by organizers.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Chicago Artisan Market.
Santa’s Workshop
Kids can shop for inexpensive holiday gifts for family, friends and even pets at this special workshop. All items are kid-priced, making it easy for children to choose presents on their own. Parents can enjoy the festive atmosphere at Wilder Mansion while kids browse.
Plan It:
- Hours: Noon–3 p.m. Dec. 6, 2025
- Address: Wilder Mansion, 211 S. Prospect Ave., downtown Elmhurst
- Cost: Items are low-cost and kid-friendly; admission free
- Parking: Free onsite and street parking available
- Age fit: Preschool–elementary
- Accessibility: Indoor; ADA and stroller details not provided; event may be crowded.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Elmhurst Park District.
Chicago Art Girls Pop-Up
Shop handmade art, jewelry, fiber works and gifts directly from women artists at this annual holiday pop-up. Families can meet the makers, browse unique items and pick up kid-friendly, one-of-a-kind presents.
Plan It:
- Hours: Dates and times TBA, December 2025
- Address: Chicago (typically held on the North Side; exact venue details TBA, check website for updates)
- Cost: Free admission; items for sale
- Parking: Street and paid lot parking varies by location; public transit recommended
- Age fit: All ages
- Accessibility: Indoor; stroller and ADA details not provided; expect crowds during peak shopping times.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Chicago Art Girls.
Chicago Artisan Market – Fulton
Families can browse handmade goods, taste local foods, and meet artisans at this one-day fall market in the West Loop. Kids under 12 get in free, and the indoor space makes it easy for families with strollers. Expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of vendors and crowds.
Plan It:
- Hours: 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025
- Address: 401 N. Morgan St., Chicago (Morgan MFG, near Morgan CTA Green/Pink Line stop)
- Cost: $8 advance / $10 door; 4 tickets for $20 in advance; kids under 12 free
- Parking: Limited street parking; nearby paid lots; CTA Morgan station within walking distance
- Age fit: All ages; best for elementary and up
- Accessibility: Indoor; stroller-friendly; restrooms available. ADA and sensory accommodations not listed by organizers.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Chicago Artisan Market.
Christkindlmarket at RiverEdge Park
Families can experience festive holiday shopping, food, and entertainment at this open-air market in Aurora. Kids will enjoy the seasonal treats and decorations, while parents can browse gifts and traditional crafts. Crowds are common on weekends, so plan accordingly.
Plan It:
- Hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Friday–Saturday; 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 21–Dec. 24, 2025
- Special Hours: Thanksgiving Nov. 27, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; Dec. 22–23, 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Christmas Eve Dec. 24, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Address: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora (near Aurora Metra station; accessible from Route 25)
- Cost: Free admission; food, beverages, and gifts for purchase (cash and card accepted). Families may want to budget extra for food, drinks and souvenir mugs.
- Parking: Paid parking lots and garages nearby; Metra service available within walking distance
- Age fit: All ages; best for preschool through middle school
- Accessibility: Outdoor; stroller-friendly; ADA details not fully listed; expect heavy crowds. No sensory-specific hours are offered.
Updated September 2025
Event details verified with Christkindlmarket.
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