Holiday Markets You Shouldn’t Miss (and Where to Eat After)
Let me be the first to say: I am not judging you for doing your Christmas shopping on Amazon. December is chaos, you’ve got 47 tabs open in your brain at all times, and sometimes clicking “add to cart” is the only thing standing between you and losing your holiday spirit entirely. We haven’t even mentioned Elf on the Shelf…
But here’s the magic part:
When you shop small — especially here in Santa Cruz County — you’re pouring love straight back into the community we actually live, work, raise kids, and drink peppermint lattes in. Even swapping one Amazon order for a local maker makes a difference (and yes, they absolutely do a happy dance).
And because nothing builds an appetite quite like hauling around tote bags full of gifts and artisanal candles, I’ve rounded up the best spots to refuel afterward.
Local Markets to Hit:
Felton Holiday Market at Felton Covered Bridge Park
Cozy mountain-town vibes, local makers, handmade ornaments, baked goods, small-batch body care, woodworkers, and Mountain Kids Choir often performing. A total Santa Cruz Mountains moment.
Holiday Late Night Shopping Week in the Capitola Village
Boutique-style vendors with coastal flair, seasonal sips, live music, and the cutest photo ops by the beach. A great spot for those last-minute “I need something nice but I don’t know what” gifts.
Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair at the Westside Santa Cruz Farmer’s Market
The Westside Santa Cruz Farmers Market's holiday craft fair features artist and artisans from our community and is the perfect one-stop shop to build out a gift basket, find unique treasures and add color to a package.
Where to Refuel:
The Cremer House (Felton) – Hearty comfort food, craft beer, and warm cabin vibes. Perfect after being out in the cold at the Felton market.
West End Tap & Kitchen (Santa Cruz Westside) – Seasonal specials, cozy candlelit tables, and the perfect spot to debrief your shopping wins over a burger or their famous Brussels sprouts.
Shadowbrook (Capitola) – A true Santa Cruz staple. Festive, twinkly, and the holiday ambiance is next level. Grab a cocktail at the Rock Room bar if you don’t want a full sit-down meal.
So many of these are one-stop shops, too! You can knock out multiple people on your list in one swoop and feel like a productive, festive queen (or king).
Additional Resources for Your Local Holiday Needs:
If you’re planning to hit one (or all) of these markets this season, I’d love to send you my Local Guide — packed with even more local businesses, food recs, family-friendly activities, and can’t-miss events happening around Santa Cruz, Felton, Ben Lomond, Boulder Creek, Capitola, and beyond.
Grab your free copy here and I’ll send it right over so you can plan your next festive day out.
P.S. If exploring these neighborhoods has you wondering what it might be like to actually live nearby, message me anytime — I’m always happy to share what’s available, what each area is known for, and which pockets of Santa Cruz might feel like “home” for you.