Posted 12 Nov 2026 • Local Events | Winter Fun
Holiday Shopping in Burlington, Vermont: Local Shops, Markets & Festive Fun
The holidays are a wonderful time to explore Burlington, Vermont. Downtown storefronts fill with seasonal displays, local artists and makers showcase gifts, and holiday events bring extra cheer to the city.
Whether you're searching for something special, browsing Vermont-made gifts, or simply enjoying a holiday getaway, Burlington and the surrounding towns offer plenty of reasons to shop local this season.
Just a short drive from Burlington, Lakeshore Vermont Inn & Suites provides a cozy lakeside retreat where you can unwind after a day of shopping and exploring.
Discover Downtown Burlington & Church Street Marketplace
Church Street Marketplace is the starting point for holiday shopping in Burlington. This pedestrian-friendly downtown district is home to independent boutiques, specialty shops, restaurants, and cafés, making it easy to spend an afternoon exploring.
For gifts with a distinctly Vermont connection, consider these local favorites:
- Frog Hollow Vermont Craft Gallery – Discover pottery, jewelry, glasswork, woodcraft, and other creations by Vermont artists and craftspeople.
- Common Deer – Explore thoughtfully curated American-made gifts, home goods, and accessories, including products made here in Vermont.
- Vermont Flannel Company – Cozy flannel clothing and accessories make practical, comfortable gifts for Vermont winters.
- Phoenix Books – A welcoming independent bookstore where you'll find good reads, Vermont authors, and gifts for book lovers.
Take your time wandering through the shops, stop for a warm drink, and enjoy the charming Vermont atmosphere. One of the pleasures of holiday shopping in Burlington is discovering something unexpected along the way.
Explore Burlington's South End Arts District
For creative, locally made gifts, venture beyond downtown to Burlington's South End Arts District.
This neighborhood is known for its working studios, galleries, independent businesses, and community of artists. It's an especially enjoyable stop for visitors who appreciate handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind finds.
Thirty-odd, located in the Soda Plant on Pine Street, features work by local artists and makers. From ceramics and jewelry to prints and other handcrafted goods, it's an excellent place to find a gift with a personal touch.
While you're in the neighborhood, explore the surrounding galleries and studios. The South End offers a different side of Burlington and a chance to discover the people and creativity behind the gifts.
Burlington Holiday Markets & Events for 2026
Holiday shopping is even more enjoyable when you can pair it with a seasonal celebration. Here are some events worth adding to your calendar.
Church Street Santa Parade & Tree Lighting — November 27
Burlington celebrates the start of the holiday season on Friday, November 27, with its annual Santa Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony.
The parade begins at noon, followed by an evening celebration beginning at 5:15 p.m. The tree lighting takes place at 6 p.m., illuminating downtown Church Street for the holiday season.
It's a festive way to spend Thanksgiving weekend in Burlington.
BTV Winter Market — November 28 & December 11–12
The BTV Winter Market brings together local artists, makers, and specialty food vendors for a seasonal shopping experience featuring handcrafted goods and unique gifts.
2026 market dates:
- Saturday, November 28, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. — BCA Studios, 405 Pine Street
- Friday, December 11, 4–8 p.m. — Burlington City Hall, 149 Church Street
- Saturday, December 12, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. — Burlington City Hall, 149 Church Street
Admission is free, and the rotating vendor lineup makes each market a little different.
Generator Holiday Maker Market — December 5
Looking for something creative? Generator's Holiday Maker Market on Saturday, December 5, features handcrafted gifts from local artists and makers.
Visit from noon to 4 p.m. at 40 Sears Lane in Burlington. Admission is free, making it another great stop for a holiday shopping afternoon.
Festive Fridays on Church Street — November 27 & December 4, 11, 18
On select Friday evenings, participating Church Street businesses stay open until 8 p.m., with seasonal activities throughout the Marketplace.
From holiday music and sweet treats to evening shopping beneath the lights, Festive Fridays offer another reason to enjoy downtown Burlington after dark.
Add a Little Holiday Magic in Shelburne
If you're planning an overnight getaway, make time for a trip to Shelburne, just south of Burlington.
Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum transforms the museum grounds into an illuminated holiday experience, with colorful light displays surrounding historic buildings, gardens, and the steamboat Ticonderoga.
Winter Lights opens November 27, 2026, and continues into January 2027, with walk-through experiences on selected evenings. Advance tickets are recommended.
It's a lovely way to finish a day of holiday shopping and experience another side of Vermont's festive season.
Make a Weekend of It
Holiday shopping doesn't have to mean rushing from store to store. Turn it into a relaxing Vermont getaway and enjoy the experience at your own pace.
Day One: Downtown Burlington
Spend the afternoon browsing independent shops along Church Street and nearby downtown streets. Stop for lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, then enjoy the holiday lights or an evening event.
Day Two: Local Makers & Seasonal Traditions
Explore Burlington's South End galleries and studios, visit a holiday market if your dates line up, and consider an evening trip to Shelburne Museum's Winter Lights.
With so many shops, restaurants, and seasonal activities nearby, there's plenty to enjoy without trying to fit everything into a single afternoon.
Stay Lakeside at Lakeshore Vermont Inn & Suites
After a busy day exploring Burlington, there's something wonderful about returning to the quiet shores of Lake Champlain.
Located on Malletts Bay in Colchester, approximately 15 minutes from Burlington, Lakeshore Vermont Inn & Suites offers comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, beautiful lake views, and a peaceful setting away from the bustle of downtown.
Whether you're planning a holiday shopping weekend with someone special or simply looking for a relaxing Vermont escape, we'd love to welcome you.
Make a little more time for Vermont this holiday season.
Event dates and details are current as of November 2026 and may change. We recommend checking official event websites before your visit.
Burlington Holiday Events