One of a Kind Holiday Show
Shoppers browse thousands of handmade goods across twenty categories, including fashion, ceramics, gourmet items, home goods, and jewelry. The show floor features live daily artist demonstrations at center stage, a curated fine art gallery with talks, and an emerging market spotlighting new talent. Visitors can also participate in hands-on art workshops, sample artisan culinary creations, and stop by on-site cafes and bars.
What to Expect
Over 600 artists, designers, and makers selling unique handmade goods.
Event Details
Duration
Four days.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
River North
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The One of a Kind Show
Food & Drink
Cafes and bars are located throughout the show floor, and complimentary cocktail tastings are also offered.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Holiday gift shoppers and handmade-art fans
Vibe
Creative and lively
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
None
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: Thu-Sat 10am-7pm; Sun 10am-5pm.
- Parking: More than 5,000 parking spaces are located within a four-block radius of THE MART, including Mart Parc Wells and Mart Parc Orleans. Specific parking information is available from the Parking Office.
- Accessibility: The show is wheelchair accessible, with a limited number of complimentary wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis from the first-floor Security Office.
Tips & Advice
- Borrow one of the courtesy shopping carts at the show so you can keep browsing all day without carrying armfuls of ceramics, jewelry and gifts.
- Drop your coat and bags at the coat and package check before heading up, because it is only on the first floor of THE MART.
- Book parking ahead on SpotHero, or take the CTA Brown or Purple Line to the Merchandise Mart stop, which lets you off inside the building.
- If you need a wheelchair, go to the first-floor Security Office early, because the free chairs are limited and handed out first come, first served.
- Stay into the evening to see the ART on THE MART projections, which light up the building every evening of the show.
Special Events & Promotions
- Holiday 2026 is the show's 25th edition.
- A limited number of hotel rooms are offered at reduced rates through onPeak, first come, first served.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get to the show by train?
Yes. The CTA Brown and Purple lines stop at the Merchandise Mart station, which lets you off on the 2nd floor of the building. Several CTA bus routes also run within four blocks of THE MART.
Is the show wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Security Office on the first floor of THE MART lends a limited number of free wheelchairs, first come, first served.
Is there food and drink on the show floor?
Yes. Cafes and bars are spread across the show floor, so you don't have to leave to eat. There are also free cocktail tastings, and new food businesses from The Hatchery, a Chicago food business incubator, have stands.
Is there a coat or package check?
Yes, but only on the first floor of THE MART. Drop your things there before you go up to the show.
Who makes the work for sale?
Every exhibitor has to be the designer or maker and take part in making their own work. More than 600 artists, designers and makers take part. The Emerging Market is where you'll find makers who are new to the show.
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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.