6 Awesome Open-Air Texan Markets for Holiday Gifts
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For this time of the year, I always make it a point to shop for holiday gifts as early in the season as possible. For me, this is a must because it just makes for a more enjoyable time as my and family dives headfirst into the holidays by beating the Christmas rush!
And to make this annual gift-buying spree more interesting, it has been my very own annual ritual to spot awesome open-air markets around Texas. Specifically, markets that cater to my more weird and quirky tastes. Rather than going to malls or retail outlets, these fun places offer locally crafted gift options that are out of the ordinary. Buying from these markets also greatly help out in the post-pandemic economic recovery of Texan communities.
From a variety of arts, crafts, and other trinkets, you will be totally surprised to find a distinct and tailor-fit gift for each of your loved ones. Sit back and relax. Here are the 6 open-air Texan markets for holiday gifts that are worth checking out.
El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmer’s Market
The El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmer’s Market is a quaint but interesting jewel of an open-air market on Anthony Street. Entering the market, you will be greeted by different vendors along the small shopping strip. Upon perusing the items being sold, you’ll surely love the arts and crafts being sold by local artists. I got there in the morning right before it got quite hot outside and what caught my attention at the market were the sand-blasted shot glasses, earrings, special dish shop, used books, and bamboo brushes that make perfect gifts for the holidays. Right before leaving, do look out for those art pieces made by local artists. You might stumble upon a classic art piece in the making. Check out their Holiday Extravaganza this 11th of December that will sure to delight every holiday gift shopper.
Get some cool gift ideas from the El Paso Downtown Artist and Farmer’s Market
Address: 400 W. San Antonio, Suite A, El Paso, TX 79901
Contact: (915) 212-0110
Troy Farmer’s Market / Arts & Crafts
The Troy Farmer’s Market / Arts & Crafts has that small-town charm to it and is totally worth checking out when you’re on E. Mainstreet in Troy, Texas. Don’t be fooled by the small size of this Texan open-air market because what it lacks in size makes up for the enthusiasm of Troy locals. This is because of the passion and love they put into creating stunning and beautiful works of art. This market offers a quaint but interesting assortment of local honey, arts, crafts, and prepared food that showcases the best that this small community has to offer. Although the market season for the Troy Farmer’s Market has ended, their special holiday bazaar for the 11th of December is to watch out for.
If you fancy a shopping experience in a tightly-knit community then Troy Farmer’s Market / Arts & Crafts is right up your alley
Address: 201 E Main St, Troy, TX 76579
Contact: (254) 421-2485
Harlingen Farmer’s Market
With over 30 vendors being offered by this market on Tyler Avenue, the Harlingen Farmer’s Market offers holiday gift hunters a wide array of holiday giveaway ideas. This open-air market locally crafted jewelry, plant-based beauty essentials, container plants, and sweets. Be sure to make it there once it opens at 3:00 pm every Saturday since the market fills up with people pretty quickly.
If variety is what you’re are after, then Harlingen Farmers Market is worth checking out
Address: 118 Tyler E Ave, Harlingen, TX 78550
Contact: (956) 572-0559
Downtown Canton Farmers Market
First opened in 2018, the Canton Farmer’s Market offers holiday shoppers a true-producers-only farmer’s market. This means that all the homemade food, arts, and crafts available are locally sourced and produced. The first time I got to visit this open-air market I found that they have great gift ideas for the holidays. Walking in, what caught my attention were the ornamental plants, dietary supplements, local honey, and even dollhouses made from recycled cardboard that will be the delight of every kid.
For awesome gift ideas this holiday season, check out Canton Farmer’s Market
Address: 202 N Buffalo St, Canton, TX 75103
Contact: (903) 567-1851
Burleson Farmers Market
As a community effort, the Burleson Farmer’s Market was taken over by Father Mark and his son back in 2014 to bring the freshest produce and locally sourced products to the people of Burleson. The market started with only 6 vendors and has grown to source from over 20 food producers, local artists, and craftsmen – making for a good variety of items for every frantic holiday shopper. This open-air market is a go-to place for the perfect gift ideas like shirts, jewelry, sweets, and boutique items. Try to drop by if you’re in the Burleson area this 11th of December if you’re on the hunt for holiday gifts.
Burleson Farmers Market is worth checking out for the best holiday gift picks
Address: 217 West Renfro Street, Burleson, TX 76028
Contact: (817) 223-6188
McAllen Farmers Market
McAllen Farmers Market is the perfect place for holiday gift hunters who are looking for arts and crafts to give to their loved ones. This is because they schedule market events specifically for local artists and craftsmen. Great picks from this market are scented soy candles, hand-sewn stuffed toys, ornamental plants, house décor, and even custom porcelain art pieces that will surely fit your gift ideas. Check out their Connecting with Artists and Crafters market event this 18th of December where they will feature locally-made arts and crafts.
To know more about the awesome arts and crafts in store for every shopper, check out McAllen Farmers Market
Address: 4000 N 23rd St, McAllen, TX 78504
Contact: (956) 255-0190
For other holiday gift ideas, treat your loved ones to a tour of some of San Antonio's best distilleries. Check here for our list of San Antonio distilleries.
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