The Dayton’s Holiday Market Returns!

4th Season Features 100 Local Vendors, Nostalgic Traditions and New Attractions

The highly anticipated Dayton’s Holiday Market opened November 14, returning for its fourth season to the iconic 700 Nicollet Mall building. Bringing festive charm and cherished holiday traditions to downtown Minneapolis, the market will be open through December 28, offering visitors a chance to shop 100 local vendors throughout the entire first floor of the Dayton’s building featuring an assortment of handmade gifts, artisanal foods and unique finds.

The Dayton’s Holiday Market has become a beloved tradition for Minnesotans and visitors alike, drawing crowds with its carefully curated selection of products that showcase the best of local makers and artisans. This year’s vendor lineup includes fan-favorites such as Joel Kaplan Water Colors, who has been with the market since its inception; Wet Dog, a one-stop-shop for pet lovers; Shop in the City, where fans can find Dayton’s merchandise and nostalgic items; Bailey Builds, featuring handmade wooden art; Frost River, with rugged, quality outdoor gear; and El Burrito Mercado, offering authentic flavors and stunning products such as jewelry and pottery from Mexico.

“Dayton’s Holiday Market has always been about bringing joy and a sense of nostalgia back to this cherished Minneapolis landmark,” said Mich Berthiaume, Dayton’s Holiday Market Curator. “With beloved traditions and exciting new attractions and vendors, we’re thrilled to offer visitors an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the magic of the holiday season and the community spirit of downtown Minneapolis.”

This Year’s Highlights and New Attractions:

1. Minnesota Sports Hall of Fame Pop-Up Exhibit (Opening Black Friday, November 29)
   The Minnesota Sports Hall of Fame Experience will open on the building’s lower level beginning Black Friday through December 28. Visitors can enjoy free admission to this interactive pop-up exhibit, open daily from 10am to 6pm, with memorabilia, photos, and iconic moments that highlight Minnesota’s sports history. 

2. Revival of the Dayton’s Oak Grill Wild Rice Soup
   Responding to a popular customer request, the Dayton’s Holiday Market will bring back the iconic Dayton’s Oak Grill Wild Rice Soup in partnership with renowned local chef and restaurateur Kamal Mohamed. Beginning Friday, November 29, shoppers can enjoy this nostalgic favorite, served alongside homemade sourdough bread and pastries from Parcelle, Mohamed’s clean-eating cafe. All items are crafted with 100% organic ingredients and are free from seed oils. The soup and other treats will be available in the new Giftable Local Food Market, featuring 27 local food vendors for the perfect edible gifts.

3. MartinPatrick3 Holiday Windows Unveiling
   A partnership with MartinPatrick3 will bring a whimsical, gingerbread-inspired “Land of 10,000 Sweets” theme to the Dayton’s Project holiday windows, transforming Nicollet Mall into a winter wonderland filled with festive, candy-inspired scenes. The collaboration will celebrate the wonder and nostalgia of the season and spread a bit of sweetness throughout Minneapolis.

4. 2024 Limited Edition Santa Bear Launch
   No holiday season would be complete without the return of Santa Bear. In collaboration with Shop in the City, Dayton’s Holiday Market will launch the 2024 Limited Edition Santa Bear on Black Friday, honoring the cherished holiday tradition and bringing a beloved tradition to a new generation of shoppers.

Dayton’s Holiday Market hours are Monday through Saturday, 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 11am to 5pm. Holidazzle will bring extended evening hours for added holiday enjoyment:

• Wednesday, December 18: 4 – 9pm

• Thursday, December 19: 4 – 9pm

• Friday, December 20: 4 – 9pm

• Saturday, December 21: Noon – 9pm

• Sunday, December 22: Noon – 6pm