Need a unique, last-minute gift? Try one of these 5 SLO County makers markets
Christmas is quickly closing in, and if you are still searching for the perfect gift for your friends and loved ones, look no further than these local makers markets that showcase the best handmade goods in San Luis Obispo County.
From hand-painted ornaments to children’s toys, these markets span the entire county and a range of unique one-of-a-kind gifts — and good news, a few of them even last beyond Christmas Day.
Did we miss an upcoming local market? Send the information to reporter Kaytlyn Leslie at kleslie@thetribunenews.com.
Art Center Morro Bay
Where: Art Center Morro Bay, 835 Main Street
When: Winter Faire held noon to 4 p.m. through Jan. 3, Winter Market held from 1 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 18
What it is: Art Center Morro Bay is hosting a series of winter-themed events showcasing the work of local artists. Through the month of December and into January, the Morro Bay Art Association will hold its Winter Faire and Craft Show, showcasing the work of Robert Doge and Margaret Bertrand. According to the association’s website, the event will include “a collective of exceptional paintings, photography and fine arts.” It will also include fiber art, wood, glass and jewelry crafts.
On Dec. 18, the association will host a special Winter Market featuring art, holiday music and treats on the patio, as well as the ongoing Winter Faire and Craft Show. The association is also holding a monthlong fundraiser, selling ornaments hand-painted and decorated by Morro Bay Art Association members. Proceeds from the fundraiser go to support the association.
More info: artcentermorrobay.org
Birchwood Garden
Where: Birchwood Garden, 323 W Tefft St., Nipomo
When: Dec. 18, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
What it is: The pop-up boutique at Birchwood Garden in Nipomo will bring together goods from 23 vendors, including jewelry and accessories that make perfect last-minute gifts.
More info: birchwoodnipomo.com
SLOcally Made
Where: 881 Higuera St., San Luis Obispo
When: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Dec. 24
What it is: The pop-up shop returns to downtown San Luis Obispo this year, featuring the hand-crafted goods of a number of local artists like organizers Sadie Rogers and Kerry Long. The market provides a “one-stop makers-shop for the community to shop local during the holidays,” according to the SLOcally Made website.
This year the market features toys, clothing, makeup, jewelry, pottery, home goods and more.
More info: slocally-made.com
SLO Makers Space, SLO-Made Holiday Faire
Where: SLO Makers Space, 81 Higuera St., suite 160, San Luis Obispo
When: Dec. 21, 3 to 8 p.m.
What it is: SLO Makers Space will host a holiday artist fair in San Luis Obispo for artists to sell their wares on Dec. 21. The market will feature goods from local artists including painted wooden ornaments, children’s toys, jewelry and dog accessories. Visitors can also learn how to create felt mistletoe ornaments and watercolor gift tags, and even take home a laser-cut snowflake.
More info: slomakerspace.com/slo-made-faire
Studios on the Park, Handcrafted for the Holidays
Where: Studios on the Park, 1130 Pine St., Paso Robles
When: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and noon to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday through Jan. 3.
What it is: Craftspeople from San Luis Obispo County and beyond are featured at an exhibition and retail sale at the Paso Robles art space. Goods for sale include candles, ornaments, ceramics, wall art, jewelry, stationery, painted rocks and accessories, according to the Studios on the Park website.
A portion of sales goes to Studios on the Park to “make the creative process available to the public,” according to the website.
More info: studiosonthepark.org