One of my favorite warm-weather pastimes is browsing handmade goods from local artists. No two items are alike, which makes it such a meaningful and interesting shopping experience. I’m looking forward to checking out the slew of maker’s markets coming up this spring and summer in Boulder and Denver. These events will showcase goods crafted by local artists, designers, and entrepreneurs while giving you the chance to meet the artist and support our local economy. Here’s what’s on my calendar:
When: Saturday, May 13; Saturday, July 8; Saturday, October 7; 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Where: 4345 W. 46th Avenue, Denver, CO 80212
Come see why Westword named the Horseshoe “Denver’s Best Flea Market” for four years! This charming indie craft vintage market was established in the Berkeley neighborhood in 2010, and continues to be a one-stop destination for all things handmade, vintage, art, and design. You’ll also find an eclectic mix of food, antiques, clothing and finely crafted treasures.
When: Saturday, May 13, 10:00 a.m-6:00 p.m.; Sunday, May 14, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Where: 1000 Broadway, Denver, CO 80203
The iconic former Sports Authority building will reopen to host this season’s Denver Flea. Showcasing nearly 200 of Colorado’s most beloved makers, locally-made goods, and craft cocktails and beer, this weekend promises some of the best vendors, drinks, and tunes in town. Don’t forget to scoop up a gift for Mom (Mother’s Day is May 14!) Proceeds from the event benefit Rocky Mountain Micro Finance Institute, which helps curious people transform into serious entrepreneurs through skill building, mentorship, and micro-lending.
When: Saturday, May 20-Sunday, May 21 (Spring Market); Saturday July 15-Sunday, July 16 (Summer Market); Saturday, September 16-Sunday, September 17 (Fall Market)
Where: Twenty Ninth Street Shopping District
More than 100 handmade indie artisans will strut their stuff at the Firefly Handmade Market on Boulder’s Twenty Ninth Street Mall. Every booth has been carefully and creatively curated to feature both returning and new artisans offering home goods and décor, jewelry and accessories, adult and children’s fashion, skin care, ceramics, art, artisanal food, paper goods, and much more. When you’re done shopping, explore the day’s other offerings, including artisan demos by Open Studios artists, a mobile art lab for kids, live music from Banshee Tree, make and take crafts from Boulder Art Therapy Collective, food trucks, photo fun with the Shutter Bus VW Photo Booth, and more.
When: Saturday, September 23-Monday, September 25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: EXDO Event Center, 1399 35th Street, Denver, CO 80205
In its second year, the Renegade Craft Fair celebrates Denver’s creative spirit with more than 100 makers. Get a head start on your holiday shopping with its unique finds! Preview the lineup of artists on the event’s roster as the date gets closer.
The Front Range is brimming with local talent, and there is no shortage of maker’s markets on the schedule for this spring, summer, and fall. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your space with something unique or pick up a gift for a friend or loved one, you will find something completely one-of-a-kind when you choose a handmade treasure from an artisanal market.