8 Must-See Holiday Shows & Pop Up Shopping Events in Chicago

December in Chicago can only mean one thing: holiday pop up shows! As you might have gathered from my Indie Wednesday and f**k Black Friday posts, Captain Dapper is a big supporter of independent design and small businesses. Lucky for me - and all the rest of us down-with-the-man folks - Chicago offers plenty of opportunities to shop from local craftspeople.

One of a Kind Show, Merchandise Mart, December 5 - 8
One of the longest standing holidays shows in the city, One of a Kind plays host to over 600 vendors selling handcrafted goods.

Renegade Craft Fair, Pulaski Park Field House, December 7 - 8
By far one of the most popular (and crowded!) holiday shows, it's like a hipster holiday heaven.

Peterson Garden Project Holiday Market, PGP Learning Center, December 6 - 14
Shop the local handcrafted goods and support this amazing organization in their effort to spread community gardening around the city.

Christkindlmarket, Daley Plaza, Through December 24
Sure, it's a little touristy. And, yeah, you might freeze your buns off at this outdoor market. But, c'mon, it's a Chicago institution. And they sell beer!

Randolph Street Holiday Market, Plumbers Hall, December 14 - 15
For the vintage lover on your list, check out the Randolph Street Market's indoor holiday-themed show.

Julmarknad, Swedish American Museum, December 7 - 8
This Christmas Bazaar features Scandinavian and modern crafts for sale, plus food and performances.

Lambs Farm Holiday Lights, Arlington Park Racecourse, December 7 - 9
A racetrack may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of holiday shopping. But head out to Arlington Park Racecourse for this 33rd annual gift and craft fair.

Chicago Art Girls Pop-Up, Pulaski Park Fieldhouse, December 14
This one-day pop-up will feature goods from some of Chicago's best lady crafters, including Kiku Handmade and Rapt in Maille.

Image: One of a Kind Show