The holiday season is officially here, which means it’s time to swap your pumpkin spice lattes for peppermint mochas and hit Salt Lake County’s holiday markets! The county comes alive with festive events, buzzing bazaars, and pop-up markets that offer more than just gifts—they’re experiences filled with music, food, and cheer. This year’s lineup features everything from traditional German-inspired Christkindlmarkts to quirky punk rock pop-ups. Here's your complete guide to Salt Lake’s 2024 holiday shopping scene.
1. Salt Lake Family Christmas Gift Show
When: November 14-16, 2024 (Thurs-Fri: 10 AM - 9 PM; Sat: 9 AM - 7 PM)
Where: Mountain America Expo Center, Sandy
What to Expect: With over 400 vendors, this is the county’s largest gift show, featuring everything from holiday décor to gourmet foods. You’ll also find cooking demos, a play area for kids, and an appearance by Santa. It’s the ideal event for kicking off your holiday shopping with a bang.
Why You Should Go: This is where you can get your hands on local crafts, handmade jewelry, holiday-themed snacks, and stocking stuffers all in one place.
2. Christkindlmarkt SLC
When: December 4-7, 2024 (11 AM - 8 PM daily)
Where: This Is The Place Heritage Park, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: This market is a nod to traditional German Christmas markets with wooden stalls, warm pretzels, and handcrafted gifts. From holiday crafts to mulled wine, it’s as close as you’ll get to Bavaria in the Beehive State.
Why You Should Go: The St. Martin’s Lantern Parade on the evening of December 4 is a must-see, and the kids will love meeting Saint Nicholas himself while enjoying storytelling and music.
3. Salt & Honey Holiday Market
When: Now through December 31, 2024 (10 AM - 7 PM daily)
Where: Locations at 9th & 9th in Salt Lake City and Fashion Place Mall in Murray
What to Expect: This market supports local makers with a range of handcrafted goods like art, home décor, clothing, and more. It’s a perfect stop for finding unique gifts that you won’t see in chain stores.
Why You Should Go: Whether you're at the cozy 9th & 9th or the bustling Fashion Place Mall, this market's rotating lineup of vendors means you’ll find something new each visit.
4. UMFA Holiday Market
When: December 7-8, 2024 (9 AM - 5 PM)
Where: Utah Museum of Fine Arts, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: The museum’s Great Hall transforms into a haven for art lovers, offering prints, ceramics, candles, jewelry, and more—all inspired by the arts. Plus, The Museum Store stays open year-round, so you can browse art-themed items anytime.
Why You Should Go: This market combines gift shopping with a cultural experience, allowing you to explore the museum’s exhibitions once you’re done shopping.
5. Red Butte Garden Holiday Open House & Art Fair
When: December 7-8, 2024 (10 AM - 5 PM)
Where: Red Butte Garden, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: This open house is held in the garden’s Orangerie, offering pottery, fiber art, soap, and more from local artists. It’s the perfect spot for those who appreciate natural beauty along with unique gifts.
Why You Should Go: Admission is free, and the garden’s winter landscapes provide a scenic escape from the holiday rush.
6. Hanukkah Market
When: December 8, 2024 (Noon - 5 PM)
Where: IJ & Jeanné Wagner Jewish Community Center, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: Open to all, this festive market features handmade menorahs, Native American jewelry, soy candles, and homemade chocolates. You’ll also find traditional Hanukkah foods like potato latkes and jelly doughnuts.
Why You Should Go: It’s a wonderful opportunity to support diverse local artisans and enjoy Hanukkah traditions, regardless of your background.
7. SLC Punk Rock Flea Holiday Market
When: December 4, 2024 (3 PM - 8 PM)
Where: Sugar Space Arts Warehouse, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: This event is a dream for alternative gift seekers, with more than 30 vendors selling records, handmade zines, local art, and other unique finds. There will be live DJs, coffee, and snacks.
Why You Should Go: This market’s edgy vibe offers a refreshingly non-traditional take on holiday shopping, perfect for the punk rock fan on your list.
8. T.F. Brewing Christkindlmarkt
When: December 7-8, 2024 (1 PM - 6 PM)
Where: Templin Family Brewing, Salt Lake City
What to Expect: Modeled after German Christmas markets, this event features mulled wine, bratwurst, and an array of local crafts, all in the cozy setting of T.F. Brewing.
Why You Should Go: With its intimate, laid-back atmosphere and plenty of holiday cheer, this market is a great spot for gift shopping paired with a pint.
9. The Silly Holiday Bazaar
When: December 3-4, 2024 (Dec 3: 12 PM - 8 PM; Dec 4: 12 PM - 6 PM)
Where: The Shops at South Town, Sandy
What to Expect: Local vendors offer handcrafted gifts, seasonal décor, accessories, and more. With free admission, it’s a family-friendly market that makes holiday shopping stress-free.
Why You Should Go: The indoor setting keeps you warm while you shop, and the wide variety of gifts ensures you can check off everyone on your list.
Make Your List, Check It Twice
Salt Lake County’s holiday markets offer more than gifts—they provide a festive experience filled with music, delicious food, and the chance to support local artisans. Make the most of the season and find unique presents for everyone on your list while soaking in the holiday spirit!
