‘Tis the season to shop local in Huntsville and Madison!
It’s that time of year, with gift-giving occasions looming, that you may find yourself wondering what to get all those people on your list who already have everything.
Rather than getting caught up in the big box stores or online shopping, you might be looking for unique gifts for those special someone’s on your shopping list this year.
Local shopping options vary from small shops to big markets full of an amazing array of goods from a variety of local vendors.
Be sure to check out the following not-to-be-missed, family-friendly market events!
Sunday, September 29 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Roundhouse, 398 Monroe Street NW in Huntsville.
This family-friendly market is free to attend, with early bird shopping tickets available to purchase for $15.
Most vendors accept Venmo and credit/debit cards. Guests are asked to bring no more than one bag with them while shopping.
Food and coffee will be available at several food trucks outside. Come rain or shine! 
Saturday, October 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in downtown Madison.
The Madison Street Festival has been a great example of the city’s down-home, family-friendly atmosphere for over 40 years.
The festivities kick off with a parade and continue live entertainment, vendor booths, a car show, artist galleries, food trucks, and children’s activities including a petting zoo.
Sunday, November 10 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Mid-City, 5909 University Drive in Huntsville.
Come shop local with 150 makers, bakers, and farmers at this annual holiday market event. Santa and other characters will be making appearances.
Live music, tons of food options, and beverages of all kinds will be available.
Parking is free throughout the Mid-City District. Walking shoes are recommended!
Some vendors may be cash only.
Monte Sano UMC Simply Christmas
Saturday, December 7 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Monte Sano United Methodist Church, 601 Monte Sano Blvd in Huntsville.
Craftspeople, artists, authors, and makers from all over North Alabama invite the public to come and shop for unique holiday gifts.
The event includes live music, a bake sale, a pancake breakfast, and a chili lunch.
Saturday, December 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment, 2211 Seminole Drive in Huntsville.
One of the better-known Christmas markets, Yule Y’all features a variety of maker art, holiday creations, food, and music. You might catch a glimpse of Krampus wondering the grounds as well!
Be sure to get there early enough for the annual Water Tower Lighting at 5:00 p.m. and free spirit sampling (while supplies last).
Parking for the day is $10 per car.
Winterville at Redstone Arsenal
Saturday, December 7 from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 8, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Redstone Arsenal Activity Field, 3732 Aerobee Road in Huntsville.
This holiday kick-off celebration is open to the public and features over 70 local craft vendors. Parking is free.
Included in the festivities are the official lighting of the 25-foot Redstone Arsenal holiday tree and a visit from Santa Claus.
Friday, December 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday, December 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, December 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at The Orion Amphitheater, 701 Amphitheater Drive NW in Huntsville.
Christkindlmarket is a unique shopping experience featuring over 60 artists showcasing a variety of mediums.
In addition to the juried artist market, enjoy holiday music from local performers along with a variety of holiday food and drink.
Parking and entry to the event are free.
Saturday, December 21 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment, 2211 Seminole Drive in Huntsville.
The Winter Solstice Market is the perfect place to find last-minute gifts. The grounds will feature numerous local artists and artisans. Inside, shop the studio artists at Lowe Mill.
This is a great place to bring out-of-town guests to see the wonderful artists and makers of North Alabama!
