November 27, 2019 |Written by Tiffany Razzano
Discover Pinellas County Makers and Artists at Holiday Markets
Give yourself the gift of discovering some of Pinellas County’s talented artists this holiday season. These artists, crafters and makers are the stars of many of the holiday-themed markets taking place throughout the county.
At these shopping events, you’ll meet artists at all stages in their career, from some of the area’s biggest names to those just starting out. Artists love to talk about their work, so buying pieces directly from them at these community markets offers an opportunity to ask them about their creative process, their medium and their inspiration.
And if you are an artist, setting up as a vendor at these events is a great way to connect with a new audience. While many are at capacity with vendors, a few still have opportunities if you’re looking for a space to showcase your work this holiday season.
Here are a few upcoming markets throughout the county that heavily feature artists and makers.
Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Drive NE, St. Petersburg
Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
With more than 225 vendors, LocalShops1’s Small Business Saturday celebration featuring artists of all mediums and other vendors is the largest indie shopping experience in the county.
In its 10th year, Shopapalooza moves to Vinoy Park and introduces its first community arts project. Organized by muralist Derek Donnelly, the project includes a live painting and sketching section with Creative Clay and St. Petersburg High School’s visual arts program.
There’s also a second live painting section featuring professional artists from throughout the Tampa Bay region. There’s still room for artists to participate and no cost to be involved. Those interested should reach out to Donnelly at publicartprojectinc@gmail.com.
Event organizers have also commissioned pop-up art installations. One will be a collaboration between Donnelly and ZuluPainter, while American Stage will create two “Instagram-worthy” pieces
Shopapalooza also features a top-notch entertainment line-up – including Pat Largo and Comedians Uncorked and musical acts, such as Dean Johanesen, Kimi Tortuga and LaRue Nickleson, Part Time Models and the Reactants – food and drink offerings, and the WannaGo Activity Zone presenting demos on everything from belly dancing to yoga to kiteboarding.
The West Events, 13435 Gulf Blvd., Madeira Beach
Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Organized by Keep Saint Petersburg Local, partnering with Market Mafia, this sip-and-shop event features handmade gifts by 30 indie artists, artisans and makers. General admission entry is $5 in advance and $10 at the door. There is also a $20 VIP that comes with a free drink and tote bag. DJ SugarBear will spin tunes throughout the event.
Largo Central Park, 1010 Central Park Drive, Largo
Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 to 9 p.m.
During Largo’s annual tree lighting, the city also hosts a holiday market featuring a variety of vendors. Shop for gifts for loved ones (or yourself) at this new event featuring a variety of artisans.
Second Century Studio, 331 Cleveland Street, Clearwater
Wednesdays through Sundays through Dec. 22, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Pop-up vendors selling everything from photography, jewelry and other art to knick knacks, food items, and bath and body products take over Clearwater’s Second Century Studio this holiday season. Each week features a different group of vendors, so if you stop by several times this season, you’ll always find something new!
Downtown Gulfport
Saturday, Dec. 21, 2 to 10 p.m.
The Gulfport Merchants Chamber introduces its first-ever Holiday Marketplace in conjunction with the city’s monthly third Saturday Art Walk. This holiday shopping experience celebrates arts and crafts.
Live music by the Gulfport Gecko Amalgamated Marching Band and other artists, photos with Santa and other activities will also be featured at this event.
Booths are available by contacting SIK Promotions.
Holizaar: Handmade Holiday Bazaar
Studio@620, 620 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg
Saturday, Dec. 21, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Now in its 12th year, the Studio@620’s annual Handmade Holiday Bazaar highlights 26 fantastic regional creators selling a range of items – jewelry, original art, cards and gift wrap, bath and body products, candles and more.
