Holiday shopping gets a creative twist as the Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo brings local artists, independent makers, and specialty vendors together for a three-day event at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Running November 6–8, the expo features handmade jewelry, pottery, home décor, gourmet treats, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Visitors can also enjoy live music while exploring the marketplace, making it an opportunity to discover local talent and find distinctive presents ahead of the holiday season.
The Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo Brings Local Artists and Makers Together at the Convention Center
Finding something genuinely different for the holidays can be easier when a wide range of independent creators gather in one place. The Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo takes place November 6–8, 2026, at the Minneapolis Convention Center, bringing local artists, artisans, retailers, and boutique businesses together for a three-day shopping event. Held in Hall A, the indoor marketplace gives visitors an opportunity to meet makers and explore products created by people who live and work in the region. The event is designed to make holiday shopping convenient, particularly for people who prefer original gifts over mass-produced items. Its indoor setting also means shoppers can browse comfortably regardless of rain, snow, or changing November temperatures. Admission is $6 for adults, while children under 16 can enter free. The expo is open Friday from noon to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Holiday Shoppers Can Browse Handmade Jewelry, Pottery, Home Décor, Apparel, and Unique Gifts
The variety of products is one of the main reasons to visit the expo, especially for shoppers trying to find gifts that feel personal. The marketplace features jewelry, accessories, pottery, sculpture, textiles, paintings, apparel, and home décor, with products ranging from everyday items to decorative pieces. Visitors can look for handmade accessories, artwork for their homes, distinctive clothing, and seasonal decorations while exploring the different vendor booths. The event also brings together independent boutiques and makers, giving smaller businesses an opportunity to introduce their work to a wider audience. Rather than focusing on one type of merchandise, the expo covers several creative categories, making it possible to shop for different people without traveling between multiple stores. Those looking for gifts with an individual touch can also speak directly with the artists and makers behind the products, learning more about their work and creative approach.
Gourmet Treats, Specialty Foods, and One-of-a-Kind Creations Add More Variety to the Shopping Experience
A holiday shopping trip becomes more interesting when it includes something to taste as well as things to browse. The Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo includes gourmet treats and specialty food products among its exhibitor categories, giving visitors an opportunity to discover edible gifts alongside handmade crafts and artwork. The official event description encourages guests to sample gourmet fare while exploring the marketplace. Specialty food products can make useful presents for hosts, family members, colleagues, and anyone who enjoys trying something different. The broader exhibitor lineup also includes holiday specialties, spa and beauty products, and other creative goods, so the shopping experience extends beyond conventional gifts. Visitors can take their time moving between booths, comparing products, and speaking with vendors about what they offer. The mix of food, art, and independent retail gives the expo a wider appeal than a marketplace devoted exclusively to crafts.
Live Music Adds a Festive Atmosphere to the Three-Day Holiday Expo
Shopping is not the only activity planned for the Minneapolis Gift & Art Expo. Local musicians are scheduled to perform throughout the weekend, giving visitors a chance to enjoy live entertainment while browsing the marketplace. The 2026 lineup includes Jamison Murphy, Joey Bonner, and Dacia Miller, each bringing a different musical background to the event. Murphy performs a mix of original songs and covers, while Bonner’s repertoire draws on late-1990s and early-2000s pop-punk influences. Miller, a founding member of the St. Paul-based band QRRRKY, combines vocals and guitar with live electronic looping. Murphy is scheduled for Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Bonner performs Saturday from 2 to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 2:30 to 4 p.m., while Miller is scheduled for Sunday from 12:30 to 2 p.m. These performances give the event another reason to stay and explore beyond the shopping booths.
