Crafters, makers & artisans

Local pop-up markets bring together talent and unique, one-of-a-kind products this holiday season

By Jessika Cesilia Perez

For holiday and window shoppers alike, West Michigan has more than a few craft fairs to look through, even a permanent pop-up shop.

For those avoiding excessive spending — the only money you are obligated to drop is an entry fee which is usually less than $10 per person. After that, all other purchases are optional so you can stroll through the fair and take your time deciding whether you really want that novelty art. (You do.)

Here is a list of the pop-up markets to consider this winter around the Lakeshore:

November Pop-Up Markets

Nov. 11
16th Annual Holiday Craft & Artisan Market
Grand Haven

Central Park Place, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. “Shop 55+ vendors who are ready to share their passions with you,” says Lyndsey Nauta. “From beautiful carved wood bowls, candles, wreaths, jewelry, spices, frozen candy, baked treats, ornaments, coasters, herbal teas, body lotions and soaps, women’s clothes, doll clothes, pet bandanas and treats, wooden signs, jewelry containers, pottery, makeup, cleaning products, nail accessories, Tupperware, CBD oils, games, and puzzles, and SO MUCH MORE.”
More info on facebook.com

Nov. 18
Holiday Arts and Crafts Market
Hudsonville

The Pinnacle Center, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Explore the 2nd Annual Holiday Arts and Crafts Market with over 70 crafters, vendors, and artists.
michigan.org/event/holiday-arts-and-crafts-market

Nov. 18 – Dec. 16
Kerstmarkt Holiday Market
Holland

Eighth Street Marketplace, Fridays and Saturdays, hours vary. Dutch for “Christmas market,” this five-weekend long pop-up will feature local artisans and specialty shops, European-style.
kerstmarkt.wordpress.com/about

Nov. 18
Holland Holiday Shoppe
Holland

Holland Civic Center, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Shop from over one hundred local makers’ booths at Merchants and Makers’ fifth annual Holland Holiday Shoppe. Entry is $3 (cash or card accepted) and food vendors will also be available. In collaboration with Community Action House, a portion of the door fees will benefit the organization and the shop will also serve as a donation drop-off of non-perishable canned goods.
holland.org

Holiday Artisan Market
Muskegon

Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Spend some time supporting a small business Saturday at this yearly holiday market hosted by the Greater Muskegon Woman’s Club. Patrons may shop, participate in a bake sale, and enter raffle drawings. Entry is free.
facebook.com/greatermuskegonwomansclub

December Pop-Up Markets

Dec. 10
Very Merry Market
Spring Lake

Trillium Events, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Over 55 makers will be offering their handcrafted goods at Trillium Events marking the sixth year of this event. Live music by Plain Jane Glory and food will be available. Tickets are $3 (kids enter free!) and may be purchased at the door through cash or card. If you feel inclined, the event will also accept non-perishable food donations to benefit Momentum Center’s Micro-Pantry. A portion of the door fees will be donated to Kenzie’s Be Cafe.
visitgrandhaven.com

Dec. 16
Winter Arts and Crafts Market
Zeeland

Holland Fish and Game Club, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. More than 65 artists and crafters from the West Michigan region and beyond will be displaying their handmade goods during this event’s second annual run. Free entry.
holland.org

Dec. 17
The Mitten Vintage Market

Town Center Holland, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Over 20 vendors will be selling their wares. Free admissions and food trucks.
facebook.com/mvfleamarket

Permanent Pop-Up

If you’re struggling finding the time to make it out to one of these markets, Brattt’s Treasures (9479 Riley St Suite 365) in Zeeland has you covered as a brick-and-mortar pop up market! Opened in May, owner Ann Marie Deruyscher hosts tens of local crafters on her shelves and even livestreams the auctions of the products herself. The stock is always rotating. Check facebook for updates and hours.