Festive Finds & Cozy Vibes: Holiday & Craft Markets Worth the Drive

We’re officially entering tinsel season, and the brainstorming has likely already begun to find the perfect gift that will thrill the special someone in your life, something with a story to tell that you can’t find in any box store. 

From charming country markets to late-night gift hauls and cozy artisan pop-ups, these festive events across the region make it easy to shop local, support makers, and soak up the holiday magic - no big box stores required. So bundle up, bring your list (and your appetite), and get ready to wander.

Market in the Village - Stirling

When: Nov. 7, 2025, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Covered Bridge, Stirling

The 6th annual Holiday Market in the Village is coming to you on Nov. 7! This holiday market will include shops open in the downtown, along with vendors featuring handmade and artisanal products to browse. Chat with a local maker and learn more about their craft while wandering downtown Stirling. After shopping head to Springbrook Diner right in Stirling. Pro tip: try their schnitzel sandwich. 

Christmas in the Valley Artisan Show

When: Nov. 1 and 2, 2025, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 182 Bridge St., Almonte

Discover fun and unique gifts at this long-running craft market – with more than 30 years under its belt this is where creativity lives. And did someone say door prize? You could win a lap-sized quilt by filling out a ballot at the show. Look for the holiday cards printed with photos of the area’s beautiful scenery – and see if you can spot the same locations on the way home. Make time to wander downtown Almonte and take a wintry pic in front of Almonte’s iconic waterfall, then relax with a hot toddy at The Sterling.

MERA Christmas Fair

When: Nov. 8, 2025, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: McDonald's Corners Elphin Recreation & Arts, McDonald's Corners

Find one-of-a-kind handmade gifts at MERA's annual Christmas crafter's fair. Browse local artisans including a chocolatier, blacksmith, card creator, textile artist, basket maker, and more. After you've crossed off everyone on your list head to Highlands Country Store to see what they have to offer and pick up a bite to eat. 

Haliburton Christmas Market

When: Nov. 15, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Haliburton Legion

The Auxiliary of the Haliburton Legion is holding their annual craft sale, featuring the work of more than 40 talented artists who will be selling baking, woodcrafts, soaps, quilting, knitting, Christmas decorations, jewelry, baking, and more! This is a great opportunity to start your Christmas shopping and also enjoy a lunch of soup, sandwiches and sweets in the Schofield Room.

Holiday Night Market at Abbey Gardens

When: Nov. 15, 2025, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Fridays Nov. 22, 29, & Dec. 6, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Abbey Gardens, Haliburton Highlands

If you’re after magic and mood, this market is your winter dream. Picture wandering through a garden lit with thousands of twinkling lights, mug of hot cider in hand, snow crunching underfoot. Snap a photo with Santa, browse locally made foods and gifts, and soak up the festive spirit. The vibe here is equal parts community and wonder, truly a place where both kids and adults get that warm holiday glow.

Perth Christmas Farmers' Market

When: Nov. 16, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Crystal Palace, Perth

Browse the wares of more than 40 local vendors, all featuring handmade and unique products. Expect to find craft wines, handmade jewelry, local honey, and more. The Crystal Palace in downtown Perth will also feature Christmas trees and holiday music to get you into the festive spirit. 

Christkindlemarkt

When: Nov. 21 to 22, 2025 (Friday 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.)
Where: Germania Club, 15 Bennett St., Pembroke

This event gives one-of-a-kind a whole new meaning! Explore a German-inspired makers market for a fun twist on your typical craft show. Be sure to bring your appetite because catering of German fare like Bratwurst, Schnitzel, sauerkraut and potato salad will keep you going all day long. If you still have some energy after the show (and want to work off some German indulgence), do some geo-caching and see what treasures you can uncover (for free!).

Vodkow Holiday Market – Almonte

When: Nov. 23, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 34 Industrial Drive (Dairy Distillery), Almonte

Set inside Dairy Distillery, this one-day market is a cozy, curated celebration of local makers and seasonal indulgence. Think small-batch spirits, festive cocktails, and artisan vendors offering everything from gourmet snacks to handcrafted goods. The atmosphere is upbeat but laid back, making it a great stop for no-fuss holiday shopping with a grown-up twist.

The Old Hastings Mercantile & Gallery

When: Friday, Nov. 28, 2025, 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: 3103 Old Hastings Road, Ormsby (corner of Hwy 620)

Step into a cozy holiday shopping evening at one of the region’s most charming hidden gems. The Old Hastings Mercantile & Gallery in 'downtown' Ormsby is hosting a special late night shopping event, filled with nostalgic gifts, vintage treasures, artisan crafts, and festive spirit. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, browse meaningful finds, and enjoy an old-fashioned holiday atmosphere.

Nick of Time Artisan Show

When: Dec. 6, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: McMartin House, Perth

Unique woodworking, beeswax candles, paintings, jewelry, it’s all to be found at this long-running craft show in the town of Perth. Stop and do some craft shopping before hitting the downtown to pick up anything you missed at the market. Bring a friend (or two) and plan for lunch at Gather (pro tip, their soup is amazing). Free admission, and visitors to the craft show are entered into a draw (it could be your lucky day!).

Christmas Market at The Post House

When: Tuesday, Dec. 9 and Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Haliburton Post House, Haliburton

Back for its second year, the Christmas Market at The Post House offers a festive and intimate holiday shopping experience. Sip on mulled wine or hot cocoa and snack on Chef’s mouthwatering baked goods while browsing a beautifully curated selection of local artisan vendors. It’s a warm, welcoming space filled with the sights, smells, and flavours of the season.

Taste of the Valley Holiday Market

When: Dec. 13, 2025, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Knights Of Columbus, 170 Ellis Ave, Pembroke

Celebrate local foods, products, art and culture during the "Holiday Edition" of the popular Taste of the Valley event series. These events bring together makers and growers from across the Ottawa Valley, and is a great way to find local gifts, close to home.