The Artists Collective | Spartanburg 2025 Holiday Artisan Market, set for Nov. 4 through Dec. 27, will offer a chance to get unique and special gifts – and maybe something for yourself – while shopping locally. The hours for the market will be Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Solomon Gallery.
“This much-anticipated annual market will feature works of regional artists who are members of the Artists Collective | Spartanburg,” says Nancy Williamson, one of the participating artists and chairperson of the Holiday Artisan Market Committee. “These works will include everything from acrylic paintings to sculptures, jewelry, photography, ceramics, woodwork and just about everything in between. Every piece is original and unique, and sure to please any recipient, and while you’re at it, pick up something – or a few things – for yourself.” Prices of the art will range from under $5 to more than $1,000.
The Artists Collective will remain open late on Thursday evenings, until 8 p.m., except for Thanksgiving. Special events also will be held during the market.
During “Shop and Craft Thursdays,” visitors can make handmade holiday crafts, mostly ornaments, to take home. All materials and guidance from ACS artists will be provided free. The craft sessions will be available from 4 to 7 p.m. Nov. 6, Nov. 13, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11. Adults and children accompanied by a responsible adult may participate. Projects will vary, and light refreshments will be served.
The Artists Collective will host two holiday parties that also will feature free crafts. “Jolly Saturday” will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, with crafts available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Many ACS artists will be available to meet guests and talk about their art or demonstrate their craft. The program is aimed at adults, but children are welcome.
“Shop and Craft Saturday for KIDS” will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, with free crafts available from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. This event will be aimed at children and features several crafts to appeal to different age groups. Classical guitarist John Akers will provide live holiday music from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.
The Artists Collective will remain open until 8 p.m. Nov. 20 and Dec. 18, during Spartanburg ArtWalk, held on the third Thursday of each month. Many of the member artists will be on site to greet visitors and will be available to talk about their work. The events will feature festive refreshments and a lively holiday atmosphere. On Nov. 20, live music will be provided by Tim Bethea.
New this year, the Holiday Artisan Market will highlight the two final shopping days of the market with a “Boxing Days” event on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 26 and 27, during regular hours. Mystery boxes or bags containing items donated by artists, valued at $15 to $20 or more, will be available for purchase for $10. Proceeds will go to the promotion of next year’s Holiday Artisan Market. Some artists also will have select items on sale.
Participating artists include Chuck Bishop, Christine Blackburn, Ken Bolton, Gayle Caregnato, “B” Collins, Robyn Crawford, Patrick DeCrane, Becky Dodrill, Addam Duncan, Marcy Fedalei, Tracy Elizabeth Files, Jason Huffman, Darryl Jones, Christine Kminek, Thomas Koenig, John Lever, Karina Manukyan, Diane McAndrew, Kathy McKay, Rosemary McLeod, Sydney McMath, Karin Patrick, Lady Pluuto, Ruza Pocivavsek, Jessica Reed, Beth Regula, Gale Roberts, Dave Sawyer, Steven Sosbee, Cassandra Stephens-Johnson, Garry Turpin, Jim Weber, Sally Y. Weber, Joan Wheatley, Nancy Williamson, Patty Wright and Mahogany.
Beth Regula, chair of the management board of the Artists Collective, says, “Our annual Holiday Artisan Market has become a favorite shopping spot for patrons looking for unique, locally made gifts for their loved ones. Shopping at the Collective also bolsters the local economy. Everything that we sell is made by our members who live in Spartanburg and surrounding counties.”
“Items offered during the two-month market will be replenished throughout the event, so there will always be plenty from which to choose,” Williamson adds. “Our artists are well prepared for this event. We have stocked up on some of the items that we believe will be popular this year. Aside from the market, we encourage people to visit the other galleries and studios in the building.”
