The secret to great gift giving is knowing where to shop.
Luckily, San Francisco is delivering big-time this season with a spree of holiday markets. Over the next few weeks, the city will play host to more than any normal person can handle. We've chosen a handful of can't-miss local holiday markets to wrap up your gift shopping.
7x7's One-of-a-Kind Holiday Market
First up: our own. If you've been to the 7x7 Social Club pop-up, you already know our editors have spent months curating a collection of all local art (both fine and fun), handmade design objets, and unique fashion. To celebrate the holidays and close out our pop-up with a bang, we're bringing in exclusive collaborations and limited edition pieces so you can give gifts this year that are truly special. This one's on Small Business Saturday, so come out to support our Vacant to Vibrant pop-up, meet the artists, and enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and sweet holiday treats.
// 11am to 3pm, Saturday, Nov. 30; 7x7 Social Club, 524 Washington St. (Jackson Square); RSVP for free at tickettailor.com. (You may also shop some of our collection online for pickup and local delivery.)
Nest x Gap Inc. Holiday Makers Market
For the first time, Gap Inc.'s insider event is open to the public. This year, the iconic American brand is teaming up with Nest, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting the beauty of handcraft. Shop jewelry, ceramics, and other home and apparel accessories from 40 local artisans showcasing a range of skills and works. Meet the makers and join workshops and demonstrations on upcycling, screen printing, punch needle, and wreath-making.
// 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday Dec. 7-8; Gap Inc. Headquarters, 2 Folsom St. (Embarcadero); details at buildanest.org
Gorgeous glassware from Cedric Mitchell at Heath’s Make Good Market makes a colorful gift. (Courtesy @heathceramics)
Make Good Market at Heath Ceramics
Craftsmanship and design are front and center at Heath’s annual Make Good Market—from a beautiful range of shoppable goods to live demos happening in and around the studio. Over two bustling days peruse textiles, apparel, jewelry, glassware, furniture, and art from 40 vendors, including Heath collaborators Carla Fernández and Natalie Chanin. When you need a break, head to the parking lot for snacks from local food trucks including Johnny Donuts and Respectable Bird.
// 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday Dec. 7-8; Heath Ceramics Tile Factory, 2900 18th St. (Mission); RSVP at heathceramics.com.
Holiday Market at The Progress
The popular Fillmore Street restaurant's annual market returns with goods from several local purveyors—think MM Clay, Rare Device, and Ariel Clute—but what sets it apart from the other makers markets is surely the food. Expect a brunch pop-up, cocktals and wine, and Third Wheel coffee.
// 11:30am to 2pm, Sunday Dec. 8; The Progress, 1525 Fillmore St. (NoPa); details on Instagram.
Holiday Extravaganza at 1890 Bryant Street Studios
Shop straight from the artists at 1890 Bryant Street Studios’ weekend-long Holiday Extravaganza. On offer from dozens of artists on multiple floors: jewelry, fine art, prints, ceramics, letterpress works, and more, including plenty of “gift-sized art” options. Keep up with hot treats and festive refreshments as you find that perfect one-of-a-kind piece.
// Noon to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 14-15; 1890 Bryant Street Studios, 1890 Bryant St. (Mission); details at 1890bryant.com