Shop Local, Support Makers & Celebrate the Season
The holiday season on the North Shore and Merrimack Valley means twinkling lights, fresh pine, and — best of all — the return of our favorite holiday craft fairs! From cozy school gyms to bustling church halls, these events are packed with handmade gifts, festive treats, and small-town magic. Whether you’re hunting for a one-of-a-kind ornament, supporting local artisans, or simply sipping cocoa while your kids meet Santa, these fairs are the perfect way to embrace the spirit of the season.
Here’s your 2025 guide to the best holiday craft fairs in Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Boxford, Middleton, Andover, North Andover, Methuen, and Lawrence!
🎄 Georgetown Holiday Fair – Georgetown, MA
Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025 • Time: 9 AM–2 PM
Location: Penn Brook Elementary School, 68 Elm Street, Georgetown
Georgetown’s biggest annual tradition features more than 70 vendors, festive raffle baskets, baked goods, kids’ crafts, and even a special visit from Santa! It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and shop locally.
Pro tip: Hit the “White Elephant” table first — the best treasures go fast!
❄️ Snowflake Fair – Groveland, MA
Date: Friday, November 7 (4–8 PM) & Saturday, November 8 (9 AM–3 PM)**
Location: Groveland Congregational Church, 4 King Street, Groveland
This beloved fair is a cozy kickoff to the holiday season, with nearly 30 craft vendors, handmade gifts, ornaments, and tasty seasonal snacks. Free admission and a festive, small-town atmosphere make it a must-do event for families.
Why go: It’s early enough to get your shopping started — and you’ll feel good supporting local artisans before the rush.
🎅 Haverhill Holiday Craft & Vendor Fair – Haverhill, MA
Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025 • Time: 11 AM–4 PM
Location: Haverhill Elks Lodge #165, 24 Summer Street, Haverhill
With dozens of vendors, raffles, and free photos with Santa, this community favorite is bursting with holiday cheer. You’ll find everything from handmade jewelry to baked treats.
Family tip: Bring cash and reusable bags — you’ll want to grab more than you planned!
🕯️ All Saints Parish Christmas Fair – Haverhill, MA
Date: Late November (check parish calendar for 2025)
Location: All Saints Parish, 120 Bellevue Ave., Haverhill
A hometown tradition filled with handcrafted gifts, raffles, delicious baked goods, and holiday music. This classic church fair has that nostalgic “old-fashioned Christmas” feeling that families love.
Don’t miss: The fudge table and the friendly local vendors who make it all happen.
🧶 Red Bow Fair – North Andover, MA
Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025 • Time: 9 AM–3 PM
Location: North Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 190 Academy Road, North Andover
Known for its festive décor, the Red Bow Fair features juried artisan crafts, homemade baked goods, wreaths, holiday greens, used books, and even a quilt raffle. It’s one of the North Shore’s most popular seasonal fairs — and a wonderful way to shop small.
Insider tip: Arrive early for the famous bake table — it sells out quickly!
🎁 Methuen Scholarship Craft Fair – Methuen, MA
Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025 • Time: 11 AM–3 PM
Location: Methuen High School (hosted by the Methuen Scholarship Foundation)
This long-running fair supports local scholarships while showcasing over 40 vendors. Expect handmade ornaments, knitted scarves, candles, and festive treats — all for a good cause.
Why go: Shop for gifts and give back to local students at the same time!
✨ St. Basil Christmas Fair – Methuen, MA
Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025 • Time: 9 AM–3 PM
Location: St. Basil Salvatorian Center, 30 E Street, Methuen
A Methuen favorite, this fair is known for its stunning nativity display, raffles, homemade foods, and welcoming community spirit. You’ll find handmade gifts and holiday decorations in a festive church setting.
Pro tip: Stop by early — parking fills up fast for this popular event.
🌿 Boxford Winterfest & Artisan Market – Boxford, MA
Date: Early December (official 2025 date TBA)
Location: Lincoln Hall, West Boxford Village
Boxford’s Winterfest transforms the town center into a holiday wonderland. Browse locally made art, crafts, and gifts while enjoying music, food, and a visit from Santa himself.
Why go: It’s the definition of small-town charm — think cozy vibes and cocoa cups!
🕯️ Middleton Holiday Craft Market – Middleton, MA
Date: Early December (TBA)
Location: American Legion Hall, 69 River Street, Middleton
A festive local market featuring artisans, baked goods, holiday decorations, and handcrafted gifts. The friendly atmosphere makes it easy to mingle and shop at your own pace.
For families: Bring the kids — there’s often a kids’ table or craft station where little ones can make ornaments while you browse.
🎨 Crafts in the Park – Andover, MA
Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025 • Time: 10 AM–4 PM
Location: The Park (Chestnut & Bartlett Streets), Andover
While technically in spring, this event deserves a mention for its scale and local creativity. Nearly 200 artisans showcase their handmade goods in the heart of downtown Andover — a perfect pre-holiday warm-up and a great way to discover local talent before December.
🛍️ Why We Love These Fairs
- They’re community favorites. You’ll see familiar faces and meet the makers behind your gifts.
- They’re family-friendly. Many include kids’ crafts, raffles, and Santa visits.
- They make gift-giving meaningful. Every item has a story, and every purchase supports local families, schools, or small businesses.
- They’re full of holiday magic. Between the carols, cocoa, and laughter, you’ll walk away feeling festive — even if your hands are full of shopping bags!
🎅 Craft Fair Game Plan
- Arrive early for parking and the best selection.
- Bring cash (not all vendors take cards).
- Pack a tote bag — you’ll want it!
- Dress in layers — gym fairs can get warm fast.
- Let the kids pick one gift — it’s a fun way to teach giving.
- Treat yourself! Grab a cup of cocoa or cider and enjoy the festive energy.
💫 Final Thought
Holiday craft fairs are more than just shopping events — they’re heartwarming community traditions. Each one offers a chance to slow down, meet your neighbors, and rediscover the joy of giving handmade. So mark your calendars, gather your family, and get ready to fill your holiday season with local sparkle and small-town cheer!
