Tips for Organizing Holiday Vendor Markets

Organizing a holiday market is no small task, but it can be such a joyful and rewarding experience for both vendors and guests. Over the years, I’ve hosted dozens of pop-up markets before opening The Creative Hub (as the Creative Avenue Markets), and I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to create a successful, welcoming event that supports local makers and brings the community together.

Here are a few things I’ve found helpful when planning a holiday vendor market:

Start with Your Why

Before diving into logistics, get clear on the purpose behind your market. Is it to support local artists? Offer a unique holiday shopping experience? Fundraise for a cause? Your "why" will help shape everything from the vendor selection to the vibe of the event. If your "why" is just to make money, consider choosing another line of work. Vendors and customers can smell that vibe off of hosts and it repels any quality vendor you could work with.

My Why: I love supporting local artists and want to give them a platform to share their work with our community!

Secure the Right Space

Pick your date and location early—holiday weekends fill up fast! Indoor spaces are great this time of year because you never know what weather the PNW might throw your way. Make sure your venue is easy to access and has enough space for vendors, guests, and a little festive fun.

One of my favorite holiday markets was an intimate one inside the greenhouse at Azusa Garden Centre!

Curate Your Vendors Thoughtfully

I love markets that feel like a treasure hunt, where every booth offers something a little different. Consider creating a simple application process to help you find vendors who align with your mission and bring a variety of products. Include clear expectations in your vendor info: booth sizes, setup times, pricing tips, and whether you require insurance. The more details you provide up front, the less times you'll want to bash your head on the wall from repeating yourself answering basic questions!

Spread the Word

Once the details are set, get the word out!

Social media and building up a newsletter are your two best friends—create an event page, post vendor spotlights, and build excitement with behind-the-scenes peeks. Collaborate with your vendors to help promote and consider printing flyers to hang around town. A fun idea: do a pre-market giveaway to get people buzzing.

If you are new to social media, check out www.Canva.com - their basic features are free to use, but as a market host, the Pro version is well worth the cost. So many great templates for all social media platforms.

View of one of the markets I hosted at the Port in Anacortes

Create a Cozy, Memorable Atmosphere

The experience is just as important as the shopping. Think twinkle lights, hot drinks, and music (whether it’s live or a great playlist). If space allows, offer some seating so people can sip, snack, and soak it all in. Thoughtful touches make people want to stick around longer.

Make it Family-Friendly

Even a simple craft table for kids can make a big difference for families attending the event. It gives parents more time to shop and adds to the festive spirit.

Keep Logistics Clear and Simple

Plan your layout with flow in mind and allow space for foot traffic. Make sure signage is clear and helpful—maps, hours, bathrooms, and vendor lists. Encourage vendors to accept multiple forms of payment and provide trash and recycling options throughout the space.

Engage During and After

During the event, check in with vendors and guests. Smile, thank people for coming, and be present. Afterward, send a quick follow-up to vendors asking for feedback. Acknowledge their hard work publicly on social media and thank them for being part of it. These relationships matter.

Build Something Bigger

Markets aren’t just about sales—they’re about building community. When you create a space for local creatives to thrive, you’re helping your entire community grow stronger. And that magic? It lasts far beyond the market day.

Hosting markets has always been one of my favorite parts of what I do, and even as The Hub has grown, I still love returning to these kinds of events. If you're thinking about planning a market of your own, go for it! With intention, creativity, and a little planning, you can create something really special.

For an example of the kind of details I used to give my vendors in advance, feel free to check out this resource from a past market I hosted in Anacortes in 2023. Happy planning!

My happy face talking with customers and vendors at one of my 2023 markets at the Port (coffee in hand, of course).