Discover 28 verified christmas markets in Rockford and nearby areas.
Welcome to your guide for Rockford Christmas markets. If you're searching for local gifts, handmade crafts, and festive food & drink, you'll find a variety of holiday markets and artisan markets to explore in and near Rockford.
Beloved neighborhood markets and seasonal vendor stalls pop up throughout the city, offering a chance to support local makers and enjoy the spirit of the season.
This guide covers both free and ticketed markets, highlighting vendors, activities, and what to expect. Whether you're shopping for gifts or just soaking up the atmosphere, there's plenty to discover at Rockford Christmas markets.
Rockford's official holiday season kick-off event.
Stroll on State is Rockford's premier holiday celebration, marking the official start to the festive season. This free community event transforms downtown Rockford with a vibrant parade, a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, and spectacular fireworks. Visitors can enjoy live music,...
Over 100 crafters showcasing handmade holiday gifts
Get a head start on your holiday shopping at the 11th Annual Rockford Arts & Crafts Holiday Spectacular. This vibrant event features over 100 talented crafters showcasing a diverse array of handmade items across 25,000 square feet. Discover unique gifts,...
Downtown businesses sparkle with holiday lights.
Experience the magic of the season at Holidazzle in Downtown Beloit. This award-winning event transforms the downtown area into a festive wonderland with businesses sparkling and lighting up the streets. It's a perfect opportunity to explore unique shops, soak in...
Multi-event holiday celebration with a gala and tree displays
Experience the magic of the holiday season with the 2025 FHN Festival of Trees in Freeport. This multi-event celebration includes an elegant Piano Noir Gala, a heartwarming Community Holiday Tree Lighting, and a charming Community Festival of Trees featuring decorated...
Local holiday shopping fair with artisan vendors
Get into the holiday spirit at the DAWC Annual Local Holiday Shopping Fair. This event is a fantastic opportunity to find unique gifts and festive decorations crafted by local artisans. Immerse yourself in a cheerful atmosphere filled with seasonal sights...
Choose-and-cut Christmas trees and handmade wreaths.
Experience the joy of selecting the perfect real Christmas tree at Conifera Tree Farm. They offer a delightful choose-and-cut experience with a variety of spruce, fir, and pine trees, alongside premium pre-cut options from Wisconsin. Visitors can also find beautifully...
Holiday art show featuring local artists and scholarship winners
Discover a dazzling array of local art at the Holiday Art Show & Sale Opening Reception. Over 50 artists present more than 150 unique pieces, perfect for finding a personal holiday gift. This special evening includes live music and hors...
Three-day holiday festival with tree lighting, parade, and fireworks.
Get into the holiday spirit at the Janesville Jolly Jingle, a vibrant three-day event transforming downtown Janesville. This festive celebration includes a tree lighting ceremony, a dazzling lighted parade, and spectacular fireworks. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of family...
Ice sculptures and cocoa crawl
Discover the magic of the Ice Sculpture Cocoa Crawl in Downtown Huntley Square. This festive event showcases incredible ice sculptures, inviting attendees to warm up with delicious cocoa from local vendors. It's a perfect way to embrace the winter spirit...
Historic town square transformed into a festive holiday destination.
Experience the enchanting 'Winter in Woodstock' season, a town recognized for its festive spirit. From the dazzling Lighting of the Square to the beloved Christmas Parade and unique shopping events, there's a magical holiday atmosphere for everyone. Enjoy live entertainment,...
Full day of holiday festivities with parade and fireworks.
Experience the magic of 'A Very Merry Huntley,' a festive celebration packed with holiday cheer. This event features a lively Kris Kringle Market, a special parade with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a dazzling fireworks display. Enjoy family-friendly activities like...
Annual Christmas Stroll with Santa and live music
Experience the magic of the holiday season at the 31st Annual Elburn Chamber Christmas Stroll! Join the community on Saturday, December 6th, 2025, from 4-7 pm in Downtown Elburn for a delightful evening filled with festive activities. Meet Santa and...
Multi-day holiday celebration with diverse festive activities.
Experience the magic of the McHenry Downtown Holiday Walk, a festive celebration featuring a vibrant Holiday Market with local vendors and entertainment. Stroll through charming 'Living Windows' displays, enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides, and meet Santa. The event culminates with a...
Community-sponsored trees with donation-based voting
Experience the festive spirit at the Festival of Trees, a heartwarming event spanning two locations in McHenry. Local businesses and organizations have adorned trees with unique themes, creating a visually stunning display. Visitors can participate by donating canned goods or...
Local artisan palooza and Victorian holiday market
Discover unique holiday treasures at the Stoughton Holiday Market, a vibrant local artisan palooza. Shop for hostess gifts, stocking stuffers, and specialty goods from talented exhibitors. Enjoy refreshments and live music while exploring the charming historic district and the beautiful...
Over 100 juried artisans in an indoor Christmas market.
Discover a festive indoor holiday market at the Prairie Events Center, featuring over 100 juried artisans. Browse unique, handmade Christmas gifts, from jewelry and photography to folk art and apparel. Enjoy a charming country Christmas atmosphere with live trees, festive...
Monthly flea market with up to 400 dealers.
Discover treasures at the renowned Kane County Flea Market, a shopper's paradise located just west of Chicago. With up to 400 dealers each month, find everything from refurbished furniture and antiques to unique collectibles and holiday decorations. It's the perfect...
Annual holiday craft fair with local artisans
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures and support local artisans at the Fourth Annual Holiday Craft Fair. This festive event is the perfect place to begin your holiday shopping, offering a delightful array of homemade items and goods from local crafters and...
Annual Christmas Walk with Santa's arrival and tree lighting.
Downtown Geneva transforms into a winter wonderland for the annual Christmas Walk. This cherished family tradition kicks off the holiday season with the enchanting arrival of Santa Lucia and Santa Claus. Witness the magical lighting of the Great Tree, enjoy...
Curated Wisconsin winter lodge with top makers and artisans.
Immerse yourself in a 'good 'old fashioned Christmas' at The Christkindlmarket in Paoli, WI. This charming holiday market, set along the Sugar River, offers a curated selection of gifts from top makers and small businesses. Savor festive treats like candied...
Over 100 booths at a holiday shopping event
Discover a festive shopping experience at the Holiday Shopping Blitz, featuring over 100 booths. Browse unique handmade jewelry, cozy knitted items, adorable pet products, and festive holiday décor. It's the perfect opportunity to find gifts for everyone on your list...
Immersive 19th-century holiday traditions across multiple cultures.
Step into a nostalgic Christmas wonderland at Old World Wisconsin's 'Home for the Holidays.' Experience authentic 19th-century traditions, from Victorian Santa's workshop and Irish Christmas Eve to Jewish holiday customs and Scandinavian St. Lucia celebrations. Enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, festive...
Annual winter festival with tree lighting and downtown activities.
West Chicago invites you to its annual Frosty Fest, a magical winter celebration marking the start of the holiday season. This beloved community event features a dazzling tree lighting ceremony, enchanting horse-drawn trolley rides, and a lively downtown filled with...
26 vendors offering unique, one-of-a-kind holiday crafts.
Discover unique treasures at the Hawthorn Woods Holiday Craft Fair! This beloved community event brings together 26 vendors offering a delightful array of one-of-a-kind items. It's the perfect place to find handcrafted gifts and festive decorations while enjoying a vibrant...
Authentic German-style outdoor holiday market.
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Christkindlmarket Aurora, a beloved German-style holiday tradition. Discover unique handcrafted gifts, savor festive treats like Glühwein, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere. This vibrant market offers a delightful European experience for the whole...
Annual Festival of Lights and Holiday Market kickoff.
Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit at the Festival of Lights & Holiday Market in Historic Downtown Grayslake. This cherished annual event, hosted by the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce, marks the official kickoff to the festive season. Discover...
Annual holiday craft fair supporting student programs
Discover unique handmade treasures and festive holiday spirit at the Fremd Booster Club Holiday Craft Fair. This annual event brings together a variety of vendors offering artisanal goods and one-of-a-kind gifts, making it the perfect place to find something special...
Community tree lighting with drone show and market
Bloomingdale's beloved tradition returns, transforming Old Town into a festive wonderland. Experience the magic of the Community Tree Lighting Ceremony, marvel at a spectacular drone light show, and discover unique treasures at the charming Kris Kringle Market. Families will delight...
See the location of all christmas markets around Rockford and nearby areas
Open Map →Rockford hosts several holiday markets each season, including seasonal vendor stalls downtown and at local parks. These markets often feature local artisans, crafts, and festive food & drink.
Major markets are typically held in November and December at locations like downtown Rockford and local parks. Check event calendars for specific dates and locations each year.
Most holiday markets in Rockford are free to enter, though some may have ticketed events or activities. Vendor stalls and food booths may have their own pricing.
Yes, many markets include family-friendly activities like crafts, photo ops, and live entertainment. These events are designed to be welcoming for all ages.