Vermont Communities Host Local Holiday Markets to Kick Off Shopping Season

Vermont Communities Host Local Holiday Markets to Kick Off Shopping Season

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Vermont towns are hosting several free craft markets this Saturday, Nov. 14, to encourage local shopping ahead of the holiday season.

The events arrive two weeks before Black Friday, serving as a community-focused alternative to large-scale retail surges. According to WPTZ, these gatherings aim to keep consumer spending within the state to support local artisans and regional economic stability.

The timing aligns with the lead-up to Small Business Saturday, the day following Black Friday. Many retail shops throughout Vermont are expected to offer various deals throughout December to sustain momentum following these initial community markets.

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In Essex Junction, the annual Craft Fest is scheduled for Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the First Congregational Church. The event features goods from local artists and vendors, though organizers emphasize the social aspect of the gathering.

“People from different churches, and the schools, and government folks, they like to go to each other’s things. So, they all gather and they have food, and we celebrate, and they come and just stop in and say hello,” said senior pastor Mark Mendes.

South Burlington is introducing a new tradition with its first-ever Hearth Market. Held at City Hall from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 14, the market focuses on creating a communal atmosphere through local commerce.

“It’s always nice to come walk around a space that’s filled with vendors, beautiful items. It’s a beautiful space,” Kate Likhite with the city’s recreation department told WPTZ.

Vermont communities kick off the holidays with free craft markets — MyNBC5-WPTZ

The Touch of Vermont Holiday Market returns to Montpelier on Nov. 14 at the Capitol Hotel Plaza. This central Vermont celebration will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features more than 40 local vendors.

Organizers view these markets as a direct mechanism for regional economic health. By facilitating direct transactions between residents and creators, the events attempt to mitigate the “leakage” of capital that occurs when residents shop at national big-box retailers.

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“When people spend money, it feels like they’re supporting, not only us, but just the community at large … [That’s] by just keeping our money local and infusing the local community and economy,” said co-organizer Heather Mallory.

While proponents argue that these markets support small businesses, some economic analysts note that the seasonal nature of craft fairs provides a concentrated burst of revenue rather than a sustained year-round income for makers. However, for the vendors participating this weekend, the immediate impact of local infusion remains the primary objective.

Event Name Location Time (Nov. 14)
Essex Junction Craft Fest First Congregational Church 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hearth Market South Burlington City Hall 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Touch of Vermont Holiday Market Capitol Hotel Plaza 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Many Vermont shops will continue to offer various deals throughout the month of December.

Worth a look

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