Two Days Only: Happy Holidays Gift Market returns to Downtown

Arlington Craft Festival

You hand her the bag, which you’ve embellished with festive ribbons, bows and a card. When she pulls out what’s inside, she says exactly what you – and every gift-giver - strive to hear: “I love it! And I’ve never seen anything like it!”

The best way to find a truly unique gift is to seek out the original artist who crafted it. Fortunately for us, the 817 Arts Alliance is a group of talented local artists who are hosting their annual Happy Holidays Gift Market at the Arlington Museum of Art in Downtown Arlington on December 12 and 13. Saturday hours are 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sunday hours are 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The market promises a variety of handcrafted and vintage ceramics, jewelry, artisanal soap, photography, holiday decorations, plus glass and fiber/cloth creations. To see a preview of the artisans and vendors participating in the show, visit the market webpage.

What’s new at the Market

While the Arlington Museum of Art has been home to the Happy Holidays Gift Market for the past couple of years, this year regular patrons will notice a few changes. A move to the second weekend of December allows for easier shopper parking.

“Our handmade holiday sale will be one weekend only this year,” said Cathy Stein of the 817 Arts Alliance. “So mark your calendars to come out and shop with us on Saturday and Sunday.”

Vendor and entertainment spaces have been rearranged so that artisans will be located on the main floor and the mezzanine, while a variety of entertainment including performances and artistic demonstrations will be on stage in the basement.

“The Arlington Museum of Art has been wonderful to work with,” said Stein, who manages the market. “Their generosity has made it possible to put together an affordable, juried show for local artisans to be able to showcase their creations.”

And for the rest of us to achieve gift-giving nirvana. 

The 817 Arts Alliance

The 817 Arts Alliance and its blog serve as “curator and compiler of information about the arts and sciences in and around the 817 area code” said Stein.

The breadth of information provided on the blog serves not only art patrons but artists as well. Artists can reference the blog for groups or guilds to join, learning opportunities, competitions to enter, or events at which to sell their creations or perform their crafts.

“And if you’re interested in seeing, hearing, shopping or otherwise enjoying the arts in the area,” said Stein, “you’ll find listings on our website for museums, galleries, musical venues, theaters and more.”

Follow the 817 Arts Alliance on their blog, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.