March 8, 2024

Annual Holiday Artists Market, Hosted by Ferris State’s KCAD, Returns to Grand Rapids on Dec. 7

West Michigan’s popular Holiday Artists Market is returning in December, showcasing more than 50 local artists, designers, and makers – including students from Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University.

The market, planned for Dec. 7, is hosted by The Spark, KCAD’s retail store and will take place at KCAD’s campus at 17 Fountain St. NW from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The market brings thousands of shoppers out to support the local creative economy and shop for unique, hand-crafted gifts. Visitors can look forward to shopping original artwork, jewelry, ceramics, fiber arts, prints, home goods, toys, and more.

“We’re honored to continue this tradition of championing local creatives,” said Mikayla Portee, KCAD retail manager for The Spark. “With our collaborative spirit and unwavering support for West Michigan’s creative community, we are well-equipped to carry the torch forward.”

There will be opportunities for 50 local vendors and 20 KCAD students.

For more than 30 years, the Holiday Artists Market has offered the region’s creative community a prominent platform to showcase and sell their wares. The annual event was previously hosted by the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts, which closed in 2023.

The Spark is KCAD’s collaborative and publicly accessible retail space with handmade goods from a diversity of local artists and makers with a goal of providing events and opportunities that inspire creative connection and nurture professional growth.

Additional details about the 33rd annual Holiday Artists Market will be announced later this spring. For vendors interested in participating, save the date for vendor applications opening on April 24 and stay tuned to kcad.edu/thespark.