Here Are 6 Pop-Up Markets To Get The Perfect Gifts
Let's have some real talk: Holiday shopping can be a hassle. You have to deal with the crowds, it's cold and you often find yourself unable to fulfill everything on your shopping list. That's why we love pop-up shops. You can go with the flow, find some unique gift ideas and loosen up a bit. Here are six holiday pop-up shops that you should check out before it's too late.
1. City Of Chicago Christkindlmarket
Where: Daley Plaza, 50 West Washington
When: 11am - 8pm Sundays through Thursdays, 11am - 9pm Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 24
Now in its 21st year, the city's tribute to the German Christkindlmarkets draws an estimated 1 million visitors annually. Daley Plaza is filled with vendors hawking handmade clothes, toys, Christmas ornaments, food, and enough beer and mulled wine to light you up like a Christmas tree.
2. Handmade Domain
Where: The Learning Machine Gallery, 3145 South Morgan
When: 11am - 8pm through Dec. 11
The western half of Bridgeport is a hotbed of local restaurants, bars, retailers and art galleries. Handmade Domain serves a dual purpose as an exhibit and a pop-up market, featuring furniture, artwork, vases and custom-made bicycles by Legacy Frameworks, all for sale. Let this be a gateway to exploring Bridgeport.
3. Sauced's 'The Night Market Before Christmas'
Where: Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, 12 South Michigan
When: 5pm - 10pm Dec. 13
Sauced, the popular monthly pop-up market at Thalia Hall, will take up two floors of the CAA hotel next Tuesday with a bevy of food and drink, DJs on both floors, and vendors selling everything from jewelry and accessories to artwork and handmade soaps and candles.
4. Handmade Holiday Market At The Promontory
Where: The Promontory, 5311 South Lake Park
When: 11am Dec. 18
This hotspot is popular with locals for its food, live music and being part of a changing retail landscape in Hyde Park. Come for brunch and stay to shop for gifts from local retailers like the Silver Room, local food from South Side farms and DJs spinning soul music all afternoon.
5. Krampus Mart At Township
Where: Township, 2200 North California
When: 3:30pm - 8:30pm Dec. 18
According to legend, the Krampus visits the homes of naughty children before Christmas to punish them for their misdeeds. So that gives you an idea of what to expect at this Logan Square pop-up shop: out-of-the ordinary jewelry and fashion vendors, housewares and art. Stay for the DJ and food from one of Chicago's best kitchens.
6. The Hideout's 'Last Chance' Holiday Sale
Where: The Hideout, 1354 West Wabansia
When: 6pm Dec. 20
Chicago's best out-of-the-way tavern hosts its 18th annual holiday market, featuring last-minute gift ideas from local booksellers, designers, jewelers and artists, at all price ranges. Celestial Kitchens and Puffs of Doom will be there to help you put together cookie platters for those Christmas dinners. If you miss this, you'll be stuck at a Walgreens buying sad gifts before Christmas.
