7 Incredible Christmas Markets Only in West Virginia

Spending the holiday season in West Virginia can be a magical experience. With an average of seven inches of snow throughout December, the Christmas markets in West Virginia make you feel like you’re in a winter wonderland.

Christmas markets are great places to find handmade gifts, unique stocking stuffers, delicious seasonal treats, and more. Here are the best holiday markets throughout the Mountain State. 

1. Hometown Christmas Festival Mistletoe Market

We’re starting off this journey in the city of Bluefield. Here you will find the Hometown Christmas Festival Mistletoe Market. This is a European-themed market that is on weekends from the end of November through the first week of January. 

There are illuminating displays of holiday lights that bring in cars from all around the state. One visitor says that going to this market made her feel like she was on the Hallmark channel. You can make Christmas crafts, take a ride on a trolley, get a tasty bite to eat, and meet Santa Claus. 

2. Market in the Park 

For another great Christmas market in West Virginia, let’s make our way to Fairmont for the market in the park. Children under 12 can go for free and admission is $5 for adults. There are several local vendors that have something for everyone on your list. 

From handmade soaps to tasty treats, it’ll be hard to leave without something for yourself. Stop at one of the numerous food trucks to enjoy a cup of coffee, kettle corn, or a freshly made donut. There are also various light displays that make the perfect family photo backdrop.

3. Fairmont Armory Christmas Craft Show

Staying in Fairmont leads us to the next Christmas market in West Virginia. The Fairmont Armory Christmas Craft Show is home to over 140 booths filled with handmade goodies. From woodwork pieces to bouquets to home decor, this is the place to be. 

The crafters are from all around the region, with most hailing from West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Admission is $5 per person and there are plenty of unique items that your loved ones will adore this holiday season.

4. Bolivar Olde Tyme Christmas Festival

Next, let’s make our way to Harpers Ferry, WV. The Bolivar Olde Tyme Christmas Festival is unlike other Christmas markets in West Virginia. There are daily weekend activities all throughout the day. You can take a holiday tour around the historic inns, see Christmas carols at St. Peter’s Church, or meet Santa under the gazebo. 

Children will love listening to the Angel Band and getting their faces painted at Social Hall. There are horse-drawn wagon rides that will put you right in the holiday spirit. Of course, don’t forget to leave without a bite to eat and a fun gift for someone on your list.

5. Hometown Holiday Marketplace

Travel down Richwood’s historic Main Street and have a shopping experience like something out of Stars Hollow. There are roughly 45 vendors that sell a wonderful variety of handmade items at this Christmas market in West Virginia. 

Wooden coat racks, detailed quilts, knitted hats, pottery, and more are available. There is also live music, a raffle, and plenty of delectable bites to enjoy. 

6. Christkindlmarkt European Style Christmas Market

Christkindlmarkt European Style Christmas Market is the perfect place if you’re looking for a unique gift that you can’t find in a big-name store. There are items from all over the world to please even that hard-to-buy giftee. 

You’ll also find a plethora of food and drink from various countries. We highly suggest getting a German weisswurst with a side of sauerkraut as you listen to Christmas carols from the live band. There are toasty soups and chili to eat as well! This market is best for adults, as there aren’t many kids’ activities available. 

7. Annual Handmade Christmas Shepherdstown

The Annual Handmade Christmas Shepherdstown is relatively new, celebrating its eighth year in 2023. It is located inside the War Memorial building in the historic part of Shepherdstown. 

Similar to the other Christmas markets in West Virginia, there are several trinkets from handmade artists for sale here. One of the most popular items here is the various handmade wreaths for the critters in your yard. 

These are packed with bird seeds and tasty treats that the local birds and wildlife will adore. Grab a pack of maple mustard roasted pecans on your way out for a savory sweet snack for the drive home! 

Summary of the Best Christmas Markets in West Virginia 

The photo featured at the top of this post is © RomanBabakin/iStock via Getty Images