This holiday season, consider giving something made by a real person, not a factory. Shopping with local artists, crafters, and potters means finding one-of-a-kind gifts made with creativity, care, and a personal touch. It also keeps more of your spending in the local economy, supporting independent makers, their families, and the small businesses that help our communities thrive.
When prices seem to climb everywhere, buying directly from local creators can be a meaningful way to make your gift budget count. Your purchase helps a maker keep doing what they love… and gives someone you love something truly special and unique. Below are some upcoming events in Northern Colorado that allow you to browse and purchase holiday gifts and wares directly from local creators.
NoCo Potters’ Guild Holiday Pottery Market
Northside Aztlan Community Center, Fort Collins
November 6: 3-8pm
November 7: 10am-4pm
November 8: 10am-2pm
Members of the Guild will sell their beautiful creations. With more than 40 potters participating, you will find variety in style and creative approach, and are sure to find amazing gifts. Skip the big crowds and get first dibs by purchasing Early Entry, offered Nov. 6 from 1-3pm. nocopottersguild.org
Fall Maker’s Market at The Mishawaka
The Mishawaka, 13714 Poudre Canyon Rd., Bellvue
November 7: 11am-4pm
Explore handmade treasures, killer art, unique jewelry, and more created by the coolest creators in the canyon. Admission and parking are free. Makers can still register to sell online. themishawaka.com
The Ranch Holiday Festival
The Ranch Events Complex, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland
November 20: 4:30-8pm
November 21: 9:30am-4pm
November 22: 9:30am-3pm
This juried show includes more than 130 artisans showcasing handmade goods, holiday décor, gifts, craft food creations, and more. Admission is $8; kids 12 and under, veterans, and active-duty military are free. applewoodfestivals.com
Christmas in Windsor Craft Show
Windsor Community Recreation Center, 250 N. 11th St., Windsor
November 21: 9am-5pm
November 22: 10am-3pm
This annual event hosts more than 100 local artisans and small businesses showcasing and selling handmade crafts and unique gifts, such as custom wood signs, baked goods, crochet items, organic jellies, jams, laser-engraved decor, paintings, skincare, toffee, jewelry, and fused glass. Admission is $3. christmasinwindsor.com
Holiday Artisan Market
Fort Collins Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Drive, Fort Collins
November 27 & 28: 10am-4pm both days
A premier local tradition showcasing uniquely crafted holiday gifts. More than 100 artisans and crafters gather to share handmade creations with visitors. This event is put on by the City of Fort Collins. fortcollins.gov
Colorado Makers Market
Northside Aztlan Community Center, Fort Collins
November 28 & 29: noon-5pm both days
Founded in 2017 with a focus on community, connection, and creativity, this event brings together over 100 regional makers, artists, and creators. It offers a diverse selection of high-quality, original goods in a welcoming space that reflects the heart of Colorado’s creative community. coloradomakersmarket.com
