The Fine Art of Gift Giving

Across the state, holiday craft shows give locals the chance to collect handmade gifts

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Yes, it’s convenient to use an Amazon Wish List. Scroll, scroll, click, click – a half-hour later, all your holiday shopping is done. But there’s nothing exciting about it. Online shopping feels like a chore, like paying your electric bill. Loved ones open their pre-wrapped bags and boxes, and you wonder what you even ordered for them.

The opposite? Browsing the displays of a holiday art market, where local artists and crafters show their wares. Instead of algorithms, you’ll find ceramics, paintings, kitchen implements, and tableware that you have never seen before – because it was physically created by the person in front of you. Art markets gather creatives from across the region, some of whom may even be your neighbors.

November 16: Artisan Fair
For a wide sampling of South County artists, visit the Pettaquamscutt Lake Shores Clubhouse.


November 16: Holiday Extravaganza Craft Fair
The Craft Fair is just one of the many community activities hosted by the Kelley Gazzero VFW each year. 

November 23: Holiday Celebration Craft Fair
A fun community fair at the Brightridge Club, in the heart of East Providence. 

November 24: Chez Pascal Holiday Craft Show
Shop for unique gifts, then visit the Wurst Kitchen window for homemade sausages. 

November 30: WaterFire Holiday Art & Craft Festival
One of the most famous arts organizations in the state opens its massive space to artisans of all kinds.

December 1: Holiday Arts Market
The Jamestown Arts Center transforms from community school into a creative market.

December 1-22: Field of Artisans
The renowned South County showcase takes place every Sunday at Whalers Brewery, along with other locations across the state.

December 5: Small Works Holiday Show
The HeART Spot showcases small works marked at less than $150. 

December 5-15: Foundry Artists Holiday Show
See what the Foundry Artists have created this year at the Pawtucket Armory. 

December 7: Holiday Spectacular Artisan Craft Fair
Aquidneck collectors browse the ample aisles at the Newport Elks Lodge. 

December 7: Cardboard Pancakes!
New Urban Arts adds edge to the Providence cultural scene – and its annual market wins for most original name. 

December 7-8: Craft & Kitsch Winter Market
If it’s chintzy, campy, or mod, you’re likely to find it at the Pawtucket Arts Collaborative’s annual market.

December 7-8: PVD Winter Lights Market
Food vendors and a Christmas tree lighting at Providence City Hall make this market particularly magical. 

December 8 & 15: Providence Flea Holiday Market
Now in its seventh year, the beloved urban flea market returns for the holidays at WaterFire Arts Center. 

December 22: BAFL Market
BAFL = “Brunch Art and Flea Market.” Savor a late breakfast and collect crafts at Laferge Church.

Through December 23: Little Pictures Show & Sale
The hallowed Providence Art Club sets up shop for small art objects at affordable prices. 

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