Each winter, Riggs metamorphoses into a festive wonderland, featuring enchanting Christmas markets that embody the season’s beauty. Renowned for its inviting atmosphere and charming local sellers, Riggs features an array of markets brimming with distinctive items, delectable confections, and seasonal festivities. Whether you’re searching for handcrafted goods, enjoying festive music, or warming up with mulled wine, these markets are perfect for celebrating the holidays. Here are the five best Riggs Christmas markets, each offering a unique holiday experience, festive events, and beautiful seasonal decor. Explore even more markets in New York State like the Hudson Christmas Markets.
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Toggle1. Riggs Beer Company Christmas Market
The yearly Riggs Beer Company Christmas Market is held at the local brewery and gives shoppers a real German-style shopping experience. There are many sellers at the market selling handmade goods, holiday decorations, and gifts made in the area. People who go to Riggs Beer Company can choose between seasonal beer and mulled wine. The market is a great place for families because it has live music and visits from Santa Claus. The cozy setting of the brewery adds to the holiday spirit. This place is important for people who want to be creative and have a good time at the same time.
Address: 1901 S High Cross Rd, Urbana, IL 61802
Dates: December 2 – December 10, 2025 (Weekends only)
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturday-Sunday 12 PM – 8 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry and for event details click here
Nearest T Stations
- Urbana Transit Station – A short drive from Riggs Beer Company.
- Champaign-Urbana MTD Bus Stop – Accessible with local transit options.
Events
- Live German Music – Traditional holiday music creates a festive atmosphere.
- Santa Visits – Kids can meet Santa and take photos.
- Beer Tastings – Sample seasonal brews made especially for the holidays.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Handmade Ornaments – Unique decorations for your holiday tree.
- Local Artisans – Find gifts crafted by talented local artists.
- Riggs Merchandise – Brewery-themed holiday items.
Special Spots You Should Not Miss
- Outdoor Fire Pit – Warm up by the fire with friends.
- Holiday Lights Display – Beautifully lit up for the season.
- Photo Booth – Capture holiday memories with festive backdrops.
- German Pretzel Stand – Enjoy freshly baked, warm pretzels.
- Craft Beer Station – Sample exclusive holiday brews.
Parking and Parking Fee
Free parking available on-site at Riggs Beer Company.
Nearby Hotels
- Eastland Suites Hotel & Conference Center – Comfortable stay nearby.
- Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana – Modern amenities and central location.
- I Hotel and Conference Center – Luxurious and close to the market.
Nearby Restaurants
- Black Dog Smoke & Ale House – Famous for BBQ and holiday specials.
- Silvercreek – Cozy restaurant with seasonal dishes.
- The Bread Company – Perfect for artisan bread and warm drinks.
2. Urbana Holiday Market
The Holiday Market in downtown Urbana is a fun spot for small businesses and artists to enjoy the season. A lot of handmade goods, unique home decor items, and holiday gifts can be found at this market, making it a great place to shop. Visitors can enjoy live music from local bands, which makes the setting lively and full of holiday spirit. The Urbana Holiday Market is good for families because it has fun things for kids to do, like making ornaments and getting their faces painted. This market helps local businesses and encourages community spirit. It is a great place to do holiday shopping in a cute setting.
- Address: 401 S Vine St, Urbana, IL 61801
- Dates: December 3 – December 17, 2025
- Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Saturdays 9 AM – 2 PM
- Entrance Fee: Free entry and for more details click here
Nearest T Stations
- Urbana Downtown Bus Station – A few minutes’ walk to the market.
- MTD Illinois Terminal – Easy access via local transit.
Events
- Kid’s Ornament Crafting – A fun activity for children to make their own ornaments.
- Holiday Face Painting – Festive face painting for the little ones.
- Live Holiday Music – Local musicians perform seasonal songs.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Local Candle Maker – Scented candles in holiday themes.
- Artisan Jewelry Booth – Beautiful, handcrafted jewelry.
- Seasonal Bakery Stand – Freshly baked holiday treats.
Special Spots You Should Not Miss
- Historic Lincoln Square – Beautifully decorated for the season.
- Winter Wonderland Photo Spot – Perfect for holiday photos.
- Ice Sculpture Display – Stunning ice sculptures on display.
- Holiday Lights Alley – Festive lights illuminating downtown.
- Pop-Up Hot Chocolate Bar – Warm up with a cup of cocoa.
Parking and Parking Fee
Free parking available at Lincoln Square Mall.
Nearby Hotels
- Comfort Suites Urbana Champaign – Comfortable stay close to the market.
- Best Western University Inn – Friendly service and convenient location.
- TownePlace Suites by Marriott Champaign – Great for extended stays.
Nearby Restaurants
- The Courier Café – Cozy and perfect for a holiday meal.
- La Mixteca – Tasty Mexican food with holiday specials.
- Crane Alley – Casual dining with seasonal options.
3. Champaign Winter Market
The Champaign Winter Market revitalizes downtown Champaign with seasonal merriment, offering attendees the opportunity to acquire unique, locally made products and engage in celebratory activities. This market is noted for its diverse selection of exhibitors presenting products that include homemade jewelry, soaps, and seasonal ornaments. Patrons may also savor warming beverages and festive delicacies while perusing the stalls. The market aims to assist local enterprises and artists, rendering it a great location for holiday shopping. The Champaign Winter Market fosters a warm and friendly ambiance, featuring carolers, dazzling lights, and holiday-themed photo opportunities, ideal for the season.
Address: 201 N Neil St, Champaign, IL 61820
Dates: December 10 – December 23, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times: Monday-Friday 10 AM – 6 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- Champaign Transit Center – Located within walking distance.
- MTD Downtown Terminal – Easily accessible by bus.
Events
- Carol Singing Nights – Local choirs perform classic holiday songs.
- Holiday Cooking Demos – Watch chefs prepare festive dishes.
- Photo Ops with Santa – Capture the magic of the holidays with Santa.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Handcrafted Soap Stand – Natural, fragrant soaps ideal for gifting.
- Woolen Goods Booth – Cozy scarves, hats, and gloves.
- Hot Beverage Station – Mulled wine, hot cider, and cocoa.
Special Spots You Should Not Miss
- Holiday Light Tunnel – Stunning display of lights for visitors.
- Santa’s Workshop Booth – Fun holiday crafts for kids.
- Champaign Mural Wall – Festive holiday-themed mural.
- Holiday Market Entrance Arch – Beautifully decorated archway.
- Historic Marquee – Perfect for a holiday photo.
Parking and Parking Fee
Paid parking available at Neil Street Parking Deck.
Nearby Hotels
- Hyatt Place Champaign/Urbana – Modern and convenient location.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Champaign/Urbana – Family-friendly accommodations.
- Marriott TownePlace Suites – Comfortable stay near the market.
Nearby Restaurants
- Seven Saints – Great for seasonal cocktails and comfort food.
- Big Grove Tavern – Local and sustainable menu with holiday specials.
- Farren’s Pub & Eatery – Casual and cozy, perfect for a festive meal.
4. Riggs Farm Market
Riggs Farm Market provides a pastoral Christmas shopping experience that emphasizes artisanal goods and local agricultural products. This market, situated in the picturesque Riggs Farm, offers tourists a serene and pleasurable holiday experience. The market offers a diverse selection of farm-to-table items, seasonal crafts, and artisanal products that are ideal for generating distinctive gifts. This experience is enjoyable for all age groups, as families can participate in Christmas hayrides and encounter Santa. The celebratory milieu is further accentuated by the inviting barn arrangement and invigorating rural air, making this a remarkable Christmas market for all attendees.
Address: 1157 County Road 2100 E, Urbana, IL 61802
Dates: December 16 – December 18, 2025
Opening and Closing Times: Saturday-Sunday 10 AM – 4 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- County Road Transit Hub – Short drive to Riggs Farm.
- Urbana MTD Bus Stop – Nearest transit access.
Events
- Holiday Hayrides – Scenic hayrides around the farm.
- Farm Animal Visits – Kids can meet animals dressed for the holidays.
- Live Music – Local musicians play festive tunes.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Farm-Fresh Products – Locally grown produce and farm-made items.
- Holiday Craft Booth – Handmade gifts and decor.
- Seasonal Bakery – Freshly baked holiday cookies and pies.
Special Spots You Should Not Miss
- Christmas Tree Grove – Perfect for holiday photos.
- Barn Decorated with Lights – Beautiful, festive barn setup.
- Gift Wrapping Station – Complimentary wrapping services.
- Hot Cider Station – Enjoy a warm drink on a chilly day.
- Farmhouse Holiday Display – Traditional decor inside the farmhouse.
Parking and Parking Fee
Free parking available on-site.
Nearby Hotels
- Best Western Paradise Inn – Quaint hotel near Riggs Farm.
- Holiday Inn Express Urbana-Champaign – Comfortable and close.
- Eastland Suites Hotel – Welcoming stay near the farm.
Nearby Restaurants
- Sun Singer Wine & Spirits – Festive dining and drinks.
- Hamilton Walker’s – Classic steakhouse with a holiday vibe.
- Naya Urbana – Seasonal dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
5. Market at Riggs Brewing Co.
“The Market at Riggs Brewing Co. is a holiday market that is coordinated by the brewery.” It provides an assortment of seasonal beverages, holiday confections, and craft vendors. Visitors are afforded the chance to peruse a wide variety of locally produced products, sample a diverse selection of holiday-themed beverages, and purchase unique gifts. The brewery is a favored holiday destination due to its festive décor, live music, and relaxed atmosphere. The Riggs Brewing Co. Market is an ideal location to celebrate the holiday season with loved ones, as it offers a variety of family-friendly activities, warm beverages, and food trucks.
Address: 1901 S High Cross Rd, Urbana, IL 61802
Dates: December 23 – December 24, 2025
Opening and Closing Times: Saturday 12 PM – 9 PM, Sunday 12 PM – 7 PM
Entrance Fee: Free entry
Nearest T Stations
- Urbana Transit Station – Close to the brewery.
- Champaign-Urbana MTD Bus Stop – Accessible by local transit.
Events
- Brewery Tours – Learn about the brewing process with festive twists.
- Live Acoustic Music – Seasonal songs by local artists.
- Holiday Food Truck Line-Up – Enjoy food from various trucks.
Famous Shops or Stalls
- Craft Beer Stand – Sample holiday brews.
- Artisan Soap and Skincare – Locally made skincare products.
- Holiday Decor Stall – Unique, handmade decorations.
Special Spots You Should Not Miss
- Festive Brewery Decor – Beautiful lights and holiday garlands.
- Fire Pit Area – Warm up by the fire with a brew.
- Photo Backdrop – Capture memories in a festive setup.
- Outdoor Seating Area – Enjoy holiday vibes with seasonal drinks.
- Gift Shop – Brewery-themed holiday items and gifts.
Parking and Parking Fee
Free parking available on-site.
Nearby Hotels
- Comfort Suites Urbana – Close to the market.
- Holiday Inn Urbana – Convenient stay near Riggs Brewing.
- Eastland Suites Hotel – Comfortable accommodations nearby.
Nearby Restaurants
- Bacaro – Upscale dining with holiday specials.
- The Courier Café – Quaint, festive spot for brunch.
- Maize Mexican Grill – Tasty Mexican food with holiday flair.
Conclusion
Riggs’ Christmas markets offer a festive blend of local crafts, delicious treats, and holiday cheer. From the family-friendly Riggs Farm Market to the cozy Market at Riggs Brewing Co., each market provides a unique experience filled with seasonal charm. Visitors can explore the best of local artisans, enjoy live music, and warm up with holiday drinks.