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Shop local this season: 14 NC holiday farmers’ markets to visit this December

By Jessica F. Simmons

December 4, 2024

Support local this holiday season with these NC markets.

The holidays are a magical time in NC, and the state’s farmers’ markets are getting into the festive spirit with seasonal events that showcase everything from fresh produce to handmade gifts. 

Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday treat, a unique gift, or just want to support local artisans, these holiday markets are the way to go. From the Triangle to the coast and the mountains, these markets bring together the best of the season with local flair and plenty of cheer.

So if you’re in the mood for a little holiday shopping, or need to get in your last-minute presents, these markets are the perfect place to find something special. Plus, you can enjoy the winter chill with a warm drink, live music, and festive decorations that make these markets a joy for the whole family. 

Mark your calendar for these must-visit holiday markets and experience the local charm and holiday magic!

Date: Dec. 6 at 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Location: S Main St., Windell NC

This festive event will feature live music, trolley rides, the Wendell United Methodist’s cookie walk, Santa & Mrs. Claus, a craft market, axe throwing, the Lake Myra Light Show, and even a snow machine. 

Plus, don’t forget the annual Toys for Tots Drive to help bring holiday joy to children in need—donation boxes have been available at several local spots since mid-November, and there will be two donation locations during the event. It’s a night full of holiday cheer, community spirit, and festive fun!

Date: Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: 172 Park Square, Forest City NC

Step into the holiday spirit at the Forest City Farmers Market’s Winter Festival! This celebration will feature local artisans, fresh farm produce, handmade gifts, and delicious holiday treats. Enjoy live music, seasonal food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and a warm, cozy atmosphere. 

So bring the whole family, sip on hot chocolate, and shop for unique gifts while embracing the magic of winter at this special holiday market.

Date: Dec. 7 at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh NC 

Hosted by the NC Museum of Art, this market is part of a monthly local artist series, featuring a fresh lineup of talented creators each time. Explore the museum galleries, take a stroll through the scenic park, and discover unique, handcrafted gifts while supporting local artists this holiday season.

READ MORE: Tis the season: Deck the streets with these 15 NC holiday parades

Date: Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: 1790 Greenville Hwy., Hendersonville NC

This festive market offers a selection of holiday foods, fresh produce, cookies, handcrafted jewelry, and more! Be sure to go through the market to find presents and seasonal treats while enjoying the charm of this community-focused holiday event.

Date: Dec. 7 at 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Location: 2701 Buffalo Rd., Clayton NC 

Celebrate the season at Pace Family Farms’ 6th Annual Christmas Craft Fair. This outdoor event brings together over 70 vendors offering a wide array of handcrafted products perfect for your holiday gift list. Bundle up and browse the festive stalls while supporting local makers and finding one-of-a-kind pieces!

Date: Dec. 7 at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Location: 570 Brevard Rd., Asheville NC

Even though this market is open year-long, this Saturday night will be different!

Sponsored by Cutco Cutlery, the market will feature a variety of unique gifts, including handmade botanical wreaths, beeswax candles, crafts, and farm goods. Enjoy live music, hot food from Heidi’s-on-the-Go, and warm drinks from Shady Grove Coffee Co

Plus, visit NC’s largest Christmas tree market for all your holiday decorations. Don’t forget to bring a new, unwrapped toy for the Toys for Tots drive. This free, family-friendly event supports local businesses and the community!

Date: Dec. 7 & 8 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: 140 W Main St., Washington NC

Spend a festive two-day weekend at Washington’s holiday market. On Saturday and Sunday, discover handmade products, delicious local food, and a cheerful atmosphere in this charming riverside town. 

It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique gifts and savor the season with family and friends!

Date: Dec. 7 & 8 at 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 1 to 5 p.m.

Location: 10390 Caldwell Rd., Mount Ulla NC

Get into the holiday spirit at Patterson Farm, where festivities run for two days straight! Enjoy photo ops with holiday characters, snow at the “Barnyard” every hour, wagon rides, and over 40 fun activities at “Pawpaw Carl’s Playground.” Don’t miss holiday crafts, the “Barn Theater’s Legend of Mistletoe and the Christmas Kittens,” and festive treats from the Market and Ice Cream Shop.

RELATED: Here are 16 North Carolina Christmas tree lightings, from the mountains to the coast

Date: Dec. 8 & 15  at 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: 211 Pittsboro St., Chapel Hill NC

Experience the charm of a European-style holiday market with Southern flair at The Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill. During the market, the inn’s front porch will transform into a festive shopping destination featuring hand-crafted gifts like jewelry, ornaments, and chocolates. 

With free admission and parking, it’s the perfect spot to soak in holiday cheer and support local artisans!

Date: Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Location: 300 Courthouse Square, Beaufort NC

Step back in time with the Olde Beaufort Farmers Market’s Olde-Fashioned Holiday Market. This charming market is set to bring holiday nostalgia to life with handcrafted goods, festive cheer, and a warm community atmosphere. Stroll the historic courthouse grounds and discover unique treasures for everyone on your list.

Date: Dec. 14 at 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Location: 4570 County Home Rd., Greenville NC

Celebrate the season at Greenville’s Christmas Market with holiday gifts and decorations from local vendors while enjoying festive music, delicious food, and fun raffles. Don’t miss the chance to tour the village buildings and snap some holiday photos!

Date: Dec. 14 at 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Location: 112 Goldsboro St. E., Wilson NC

Enjoy live music from local performers, festive train rides, thrilling attractions like the Ferris wheel and bouncy houses, and shop unique holiday gifts at the Whirligig Park Holiday Market. With Santa sightings, creative treats like custom Elf Sundaes, and adorable photo ops with pygmy goats, this celebration offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Date: Dec. 20 at 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Location: 220 Lorax Lane, Pittsboro NC

Join Reclamation and The Plant for a magical night market in Pittsboro. It’s the perfect opportunity for last-minute holiday shopping, with a variety of local vendors, live music, adult beverages, and cozy fire pits. Under the stars and moon, this festive event celebrates the spirit of shopping local and connecting with the community.

Date: Dec. 21 at 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Location: 855 Cary Towne Blvd., Cary NC

Head to Fenton for the last Holiday Makers Market of the year! This festive market features a mix of local artisans, crafts, and holiday shopping. Fenton’s vibrant community space offers a unique setting for finding one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoying free events, and celebrating the season with friends and family.

READ MORE: A North Carolina holiday gift guide, with an emphasis on the western NC businesses who need your help

Author

  • Jessica F. Simmons

    Jessica F. Simmons is Cardinal & Pine’s multimedia reporter dedicated to community stories. Featured in INDY Week, The Daily Tar Heel, Carolina Week, and heard on Chapelboro and Carolina Connection, Jessica is passionate about covering local stories and public policies.

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