Illustration of a christmas market scene (Holiday Craft Show)
Christmas Markets

Holiday Craft Show

Talented artisans display and sell handmade gifts and decorations across more than 90 craft booths. Children can head to Santa’s Workshop to create make-and-take crafts, get their faces painted, and view model train setups presented by Kids Run Trains. Visitors can also spot Santa Claus and the city mascot Chessie for photos, or grab snacks from the on-site concessions.

What to Expect

Shop over 90 crafters with train displays and Santa visits.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

City of Chesapeake Parks, Recreation & Tourism

Food & Drink

Concessions are available for purchase.

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children and holiday shoppers

Vibe

Festive and crafty

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

Free

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Location

Chesapeake Conference Center
700 Conference Center Drive
Chesapeake, VA
23320

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Free admission. A free shopping bag is available each day while supplies last. Concessions are available for purchase.
  • Hours: Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Parking: Free parking.

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early each day to get one of the free shopping bags, which are handed out only while supplies last.
  • Bring a camera for Santa's special appearances throughout the show and for photos with Chessie, the Parks, Recreation and Tourism mascot.
  • Take the kids to Santa's Workshop to make crafts to take home and get their faces painted, then see the Kids Run Trains displays.
  • Bring your holiday gift list, since more than 90 crafters sell handmade gifts and decorations at this traditional start to Chesapeake's shopping season.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Admission and parking are free.
  • A free shopping bag is available each day while supplies last.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I shop for?

More than 90 crafters sell handmade gifts and decorations. The show is Chesapeake's traditional start to the holiday shopping season.

What is there for kids?

Kids can make crafts to take home and get their faces painted in Santa's Workshop. Kids Run Trains also brings its train displays.

Can we get photos with Santa?

Yes. Santa makes special appearances throughout the show, so bring a camera. Chessie, the Parks, Recreation and Tourism mascot, is around for pictures on both days too.

Is there food?

Yes, concessions are for sale.

How can I become a vendor?

The city's Holiday Craft Show Vendor Information page explains the application process.

Tags

holiday marketfamily friendlyhandmade craftsSanta visitsfestive foodholiday shoppingcommunity celebrationartisanal productsfree event

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team