The holiday season has arrived, and with it comes the search for meaningful gifts for the people we love. Instead of heading to the same stores as everyone else, we at The Paper. believe in celebrating the creativity and spirit of our own community. This year, we invite you to shop local and discover one-of-a-kind treasures crafted right here in Albuquerque. Below is your guide to the holiday markets popping up across the city that are perfect places to find gifts you won’t see anywhere else.
2nd Annual Goods & Gratitude Market (Saturday, Nov. 29)
Celebrate the spirit of the season at the 2nd Annual Goods & Gratitude Market, held at the El Vado Motel (2500 Central Ave SW) from noon to 4 p.m. This year’s event lands on Small Business Saturday, an ideal moment to shop local, connect with neighbors and discover meaningful, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. Enjoy live music, delicious food and drinks and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. The market will also host a food drive benefiting Roadrunner Food Bank, so consider bringing a nonperishable donation to support New Mexico families in need. Admission is free.
Holigay Market (Saturday, Nov. 29)
Celebrate community and creativity at the Holigay Market, hosted by Plata Coffee (8325 2nd St. NW) on Saturday, Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This one-day market highlights queer artisans and makers, offering a chance to shop intentionally and locally. While you browse, treat yourself to a warm cup of coffee from Plata Coffee and explore a variety of handmade gifts. Admission is free.
Holiday Artisan Market (Saturday, Dec. 6)
Support young creators at the Holiday Artisan Market, featuring unique, handcrafted treasures made by local Girl Scouts. From seasonal gifts to homemade treats, every purchase helps Girl Scouts build skills in entrepreneurship and leadership. The market takes place on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lodge Venue (3801 Osuna Rd NE). Admission is free.
Merry Maker Market at FUSE Makerspace (Sunday, Dec. 7)
Kick off December with creativity at the Merry Maker Market, hosted at FUSE Makerspace (101 Broadway Blvd NE) on Sunday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Browse handmade goods, local art, and unique holiday gifts while supporting Albuquerque’s vibrant maker community. Attendees can also screenprint their own tote bag. Admission is free.
Goth Night & Dark Market: Gothmas Sweater Edition (Friday, Dec. 12)
Embrace the darker side of the holidays at the Goth Night & Dark Market: Gothmas Sweater Edition, happening Friday, Dec. 12 at Tractor Brewery in Wells Park (1800 4th St NW) starting at 8 p.m. Shop from local vendors offering goth-themed gifts, art and handmade goods while enjoying music from DJ Riff Raff throughout the night. Don your most dramatic eyeliner and get into the spirit. Admission is free.
Holiday Market at the Rail Yards (Saturday, Dec. 13 to Sunday, Dec. 21)
For two festive weekends, the Rail Yards Holiday Market brings together the best of Albuquerque’s small businesses and makers. Now in its 12th year, this beloved tradition features vendors offering delicious made-from-scratch foods and high-quality handmade crafts. The market runs Dec. 13, Dec. 14, Dec. 20, and Dec. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. Admission and parking are free.
German Christmas Market (Sunday, Dec. 14)
Experience a slice of European holiday cheer at the German Christmas Market, hosted at the Eurozone Store (3700 Osuna Rd NE) on Sunday, Dec. 14 from 12:30 to 7 p.m. Enjoy authentic German foods and drinks, from fresh-baked cookies and warm pretzels to Gluehwein (mulled wine) and Kinderpunsch. Browse artisan gifts, handcrafted décor, and unique items from both local and international vendors. Admission is free.
Humble Holiday Market (Saturday, Dec. 20)
Round out your holiday shopping at the 11th Annual Humble Holiday Market, hosted by Humble Coffee Company at 4200 Lomas Blvd NE. Taking place Saturday, Dec. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., this is Albuquerque’s largest independent market, featuring over a hundred local vendors. Guests can also enjoy on-theme beverages from Moon Walk Bar, a live DJ, food trucks and more. Admission is $5, with free entry for kids 12 and under.