Milwaukee's Holiday Markets: 9 Venues, 75 Artists, and Free Entry Options
From the Story Hill Firehouse to the Pritzlaff Building, local vendors are setting up shop across the city this winter.
By Samir Patterson ·
More than 75 artists and vendors will gather at the Saint Kate and the Arts Hotel in downtown Milwaukee to open the local holiday market season. This specific event, scheduled for November 28 and 29, represents the largest single vendor count among the nine upcoming fairs listed for the area. The market will take place in the hotel’s Simone Ballroom and the Arc Theater, with live music accompanying the shopping experience. Admission is free for all attendees.
The season begins on November 7 at the Story Hill Firehouse. This event features 35 local vendors selling gifts and holiday treats. The venue allows pets to enter, and live music will play throughout the day. Both indoor and outdoor spaces will host the sellers. Entry to this specific market is free.
In Glendale, The Bavarian Bierhaus will host The Brickyard Holiday Marketplace on November 15. This pop-up includes 24 interactive art booths where visitors can participate in live illustrations and bracelet making. Performers Vince Condella, Don Gibson, and John Ruse will provide live music. A group activity called the Live Yule Mandala Creation is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Tickets cost $5 when purchased online while they last.
Fiserv Forum will host the second annual Deer Direct holiday market starting November 20 and running through December 6. The event includes local vendors, a seasonal photo booth, and holiday drinks. It is located in Milwaukee’s entertainment district and is free to attend. The market will be closed on Thanksgiving Day.
The State Fair Park will host the 83rd annual Holiday Folk Fair from November 20 to 22. This event focuses on cultural traditions, offering an international bazaar, Heritage Lane exhibits, and a multicultural dance showcase at the All Nations Theater. Admission is $16 for general guests, $14 for adults aged 62 and older, and free for children aged seven and under.
The Walkers Point Makers Market & Bar Hop will take place on November 21 in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. The event runs from noon to 5 p.m. and combines artisan shopping with a bar crawl. Participants can visit Great Lakes Distillery and MobCraft Beer after browsing the local goods.
The 18th annual Hover Craft Holiday Market will occupy the Pritzlaff Building on December 6. This event runs from noon to 6 p.m. and features Milwaukee-based vendors selling jewelry and woodwork. Tickets are $5 when bought in advance on Eventbrite, and children enter for free.
Two events are scheduled for December 12. Mill Pond Plaza in Menomonee Falls will host a European-style Christmas market inspired by German traditions. It features Wisconsin artists, festive snacks, and a real-life reindeer. Entry is free. On the same day, Discovery World will host its Maker Market special Holiday Market from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event supports local artists and designers and is free to enter.
