Shoppers looking for unique gifts this holiday season have their pick of artisan markets in the metro area. These seasonal events offer one-of-a-kind items, often made by locals, giving you the chance to find great gifts while supporting the local economy.
Many of the artisan markets kick-off this weekend. Some will run through the holiday season, while others are just a few days. Here are just a few of the markets out there:
Athena's Marketplace : Enjoy an array of vendors selling jewelry, cosmetics, artwork, books, holiday gifts and more at this marketplace where you can also treat yourself to a Greek lunch. Athena's Marketplace, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sat., Nov. 21. Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Hellenic Center Atrium, 2500 Clairmont Road. Atlanta. www.atlgoc.org.
Indie Craft Experience : This annual event offers 175 craft and vintage vendors all in one location. It costs $5 cash at the door (kids 12 and under are free) and the first 250 guests each day get a swag bag. Local vendors will sell food and DJ Zano plays the tunes. Indie Craft Experience, 11a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat. Nov. 21 and Sun., Nov. 22. Georgia Freight Depot, 65 MLK Jr. Drive, Atlanta (next to Underground Atlanta). www.ice-atlanta.com.
Swan Coach House Gallery, Little Things Mean a Lot : For 16 years, this show has featured work from Atlanta area artists at a more affordable price range. Shoppers will find more than 300 small works of art in a range of mediums including painting, drawing, sculpture and more. Contemporary artists include Dorothy Crawley, Lucha Rodriguez, Charlie MacNeill and Jordan Stubbs, while more traditional works are supplied by Beth Evans, Blair Mann, Fred Wise and Cynthia Perryman. Little Things Mean a Lot, Swan Coach House Gallery, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Tuesdays - Saturdays (through Jan. 6). 3130 Slaton Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-266-2636. Swancoachhouse.com.
Shoppe Artisan : A new addition to holiday shopping was founded by former AmericasMart executive, Lori Kisner. The event features a curated collection of artisan items from more than 100 artists in Atlanta and across the country. There is jewelry, home decor, accessories, children's gifts and more. Tickets are $10 in advance and $14 at the door. Seniors are $8 in advance and $10 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Shoppe Artisan, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4 and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 5 and Sunday, Dec. 6. Cobb Galleria Centre, Two Galleria Parkway, Atlanta. 770-559-0293. Shoppeartisan.com .
Citizen Supply : This is not a seasonal market but this new marketplace at Ponce City Market is open for business just in time for holiday shopping. Shoppers will find a curated selection of items from local and national makers. Vendors will rotate each quarter in stalls which showcase everything from clothing to art. Citizen Supply, Ponce City Market, 675 Ponce de Leon Ave NE, Atlanta (second floor of the food hall). www.Citizen.supply.
Spruill Gallery Holiday Artists Market : A range of locally made items for everyone on your list are available at this market. They also offer themed days throughout the season including Family Day on Dec. 5, a handmade gift bazaar on Dec. 12 and a last-minute shoppers sale on Dec. 23 which offers 20% off your purchase. Spruill Gallery Holiday Artists Market: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m, Mondays - Saturdays, 12 - 5 p.m., Sundays. Now through Dec. 23, 4681 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. 770-394-4019. Spruillarts.org.
Fulton County Holiday Crafts and Arts Market : Local vendors, art workshops and performances make up this holiday market that is free and open to the public. Holiday Crafts and Arts Market, 12 - 4 p.m., Dec. 12, South Fulton Arts Center, 4645 Butner Road, College Park. 404-612-3087. Fultonarts.org.
