It’s a time-honored tradition: As the Thanksgiving dishes are cleared, it’s time to start thinking about sales and ticking off items on a holiday shopping list. In the Madison area, these eight events — local art markets, downtown small business shopping crawls and more — are a great way to get started.
Discounts and deals
Can’t wait until Thanksgiving weekend to hit the stores? Shop sales at Sur la Table, Warby Parker, Paper Source and UnTUCKit this Saturday while sipping on a complimentary hot cocoa from Crescendo. Stick around until nightfall for Hilldale’s annual tree-lighting ceremony — and you might spot Santa and his reindeer, too. Nov. 24, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Hilldale Shopping Center (726 N. Midvale Blvd.)
For a more traditional Black Friday experience, take advantage of West Towne Mall’s extended hours and shop discounts at big-name stores like American Eagle, Victoria’s Secret and Ragstock. For more holiday festivities, head over to Santa Land in the food court for photos with Santa and glitter tattoos from his elves, or stop by Center Court between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. and say hi to Disney princesses Anna and Elsa. Nov. 29, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., West Towne Mall (66 W. Towne Mall)
Head to Madison’s west side to support a few local, women-owned businesses: Beneblends, Thistle + Elm, Miggy’s Bakes, Tricky Foods and EBNS. Each location is offering a special Black Friday deal, and patrons who visit all four shops will be entered in a raffle to win a grand prize worth more than $150! Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., various locations
Small Business Saturday on Monroe
On Monroe Street, shoppers can try their luck with Mystery To Me’s mystery deals and wrapped book. Madison Chocolate Company products are 10% off store-wide, and all patrons of Monroe Street’s many shops and restaurants will be entered in a raffle for a tote bag and a $25 gift card. Nov. 30, all day, Monroe Street
Downtown Madison Holiday Open House
Take a ride on the Downtown Holiday Trolley to browse sales street-wide (after grabbing a holiday gift bag from the Downtown Visitor Center, of course). Each business offers a unique promotion: At Parthenon Gyros, a case of baklava is 15% off, and at Lake City Books, used books are all half-off. End the day with live music at the top of State! Nov. 29-Dec. 1, all day, State Street
Shopping small
Centered at The Sylvee (but with eight additional host locations, including Imaginary Factory, State Line Distillery and Giant Jones Brewing Co.), this market highlights over a hundred local and regional vendors, offering everything from baked goods to clothing to pet toys. Attendance is free for all ages. Nov. 29, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., various locations
Small Business Saturday Holiday Craftacular
In addition to more than 50 local vendors, this event offers drop-in crafts and small bites. Why not have fun while searching for the perfect gift? Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Garver Feed Mill (3241 Garver Green)
Pottery, fine art, textiles, clothing … this open art and craft sale has it all, with eight local artists alongside food and drink vendors. Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Old Sugar Distillery (931 E. Main St.)
Out of town for Thanksgiving? Check out these art fairs and markets for more chances to shop and save locally throughout the holiday season.
Gabby Shell is an editorial intern at Madison Magazine.
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