Do you dread the abject prospect of endless holiday shopping? Do you have that one person that stymies you when it comes to selecting a decent gift? Or, do you simply want to treat yourself, as a reward, for getting through the anticipated holiday dinners with extended family?
Toledo’s Maker’s Mart and Holiday Loop can provide answers to these questions. On Saturday, November 22, downtown Toledo will host these two artistic showcase events, where you can stumble upon functional and traditional art for affordable holiday gifts.
These two events, while not directly affiliated, both celebrate our community’s love of art. So make your list, check it twice, and support your local artists ahead of the Black Friday crowd!
Maker’s Mart
1717 Adams Street, 10am-8pm
With a place to finally call home, Handmade Toledo is ready to open its doors to another Maker’s Mart. This indie craft fair will return to 1717 Adams Street, with more than 90 local and regional vendors displaying one-of-a-kind crafts. From woodwork to handmade soaps to bags and Toledo-proud T-shirts, there are gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list.
Food trucks will line the street and you can enjoy Toledo culinary favorites like Jeannie’s Weenies, Bleak House Coffee, All Crumbs Artisan Bakery and more.
“It’s more than just going to a place and buying something,” said Betty Floored, founder of Handmade Toledo. “You’re meeting the person that made that thing and you’re supporting somebody who spends their time and is passionate about making the things that they’re selling.”
Holiday Loop
Downtown Toledo, 3-8pm
Conceived in 2004 as an artist ‘meet-and-greet’, the Gallery Loop has since grown to a twice-a-year event that is open to the public. Now, The Arts Commission of Greater Toledo (ACGT) sponsors the Loop, promoting local artists showcasing affordable paintings, sculptures, jewelry and much more.
“Buying a piece of art from a local artist truly supports small business. (Proceeds go) back into the local economy and will reseed Toledo, creating more vibrancy,” said Michelle Carlson, ACGT programs coordinator.
Buses will shuttle between the 20-35 venues, where artists will create an inviting space for the special day.
“We really feel it’s important that the Toledo region have access to the arts in a way that doesn’t have barriers, so that anyone can come out and enjoy it, because the arts are for everyone,” said Carlson.
Plenty of parking will be available along Adams Street and throughout downtown. To see an updated map of the Holiday Loop, check out theartscommission.org.
For more information about Handmade Toledo, as well as how to become a vendor go to handmadetoledo.com.