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10 Must-Know Secrets Of The Merry Market State Fair 2025: Dates, Vendors, And Unmissable Attractions

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The holiday season in the Twin Cities is officially marked by the return of a beloved annual tradition: the Minnesota Merry Market at the State Fair. This premier indoor shopping event transforms the Minnesota State Fairgrounds into a festive paradise, offering a fresh, curated experience for finding unique, handcrafted gifts. As of today, December 23, 2025, the full schedule and key attractions for the highly anticipated 2025 season are confirmed, promising two weekends of unparalleled local artistry, delicious treats, and family-friendly fun, all contained within the warm, expansive North End Event Center. This is not just a market; it’s a massive celebration of local entrepreneurship and holiday spirit that you absolutely need to plan for.

The event, expertly organized by Homespun Events, has quickly become a cornerstone of the regional holiday calendar, drawing thousands of visitors eager to support local makers and escape the chill of a Minnesota December. Forget the crowded malls; the Merry Market State Fair is where you'll find everything from exquisite hand-poured candles to stunning handcrafted jewelry, all while sipping on a signature warm beverage from the legendary Beer Dabbler team. We've compiled the ultimate guide to ensure you don't miss a single festive detail of the 2025 market.

The Essential 2025 Minnesota Merry Market State Fair Schedule and Location

Planning your visit is crucial, as the market spans two distinct weekends, each featuring a rotating selection of local artists and gift vendors. The event takes place entirely indoors, providing a comfortable and festive atmosphere regardless of the winter weather outside. You'll find it all at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, a familiar and easily accessible location for residents and visitors to the Twin Cities area.

  • Event Name: Minnesota Merry Market at the State Fair
  • Location: Minnesota State Fairgrounds, North End Event Center
  • Address: 1265 Snelling Ave N, St. Paul, MN 55108
  • 2025 Weekend 1 Dates: Saturday, December 13, 2025, and Sunday, December 14, 2025.
  • 2025 Weekend 2 Dates: Saturday, December 20, 2025, and Sunday, December 21, 2025.
  • Organizer: Homespun Events

The decision to host the event across two weekends is a strategic one, designed to maximize exposure for the nearly 160 different small businesses that participate. Approximately 80 unique vendors are featured each weekend, meaning a dedicated shopper could visit both weekends and enjoy two completely different shopping experiences. This structure ensures a constant supply of fresh merchandise and a diverse selection of handmade goods throughout the month of December.

Beyond Shopping: Unmissable Attractions and Family Fun

While the primary draw of the Merry Market is the exceptional holiday shopping, the organizers have ensured the event is a full-fledged festive experience for the entire family. It’s an ideal destination for creating holiday memories, not just checking off your gift list. The atmosphere is vibrant, warm, and infused with the spirit of the season, making it a true St. Paul holiday tradition.

1. The Beer Dabbler Warm Beverage Experience

A key partner in the event is the renowned Beer Dabbler team, who manage the beverage service. Forget cold coffee; the market specializes in offering a selection of delicious warm beverages perfect for a chilly December day. This includes everything from gourmet hot chocolate to specialty coffees and, for adults, perhaps a festive mulled wine or a seasonal craft beer. It’s the perfect accompaniment as you browse the aisles of intricate home decor and artisan pottery.

2. Free Family Entertainment and Santa Visits

The market is exceptionally family-friendly, offering free activities that keep the little ones entertained. Confirmed attractions for the 2025 event include free Christmas crafts and games, allowing children to get hands-on with the holiday spirit. A major highlight is the opportunity to meet Santa Claus. Santa’s schedule is typically set for specific hours each day, offering a low-stress, festive photo opportunity. Be sure to check the official Homespun Events website closer to the date for his specific appearance times.

3. The Trackless Train Ride

Adding a whimsical element to the fair is the inclusion of free trackless train rides. This popular feature allows families to take a fun, festive loop around the event space, adding a delightful carnival-like feel to the indoor market. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a unique way to take a break from the serious business of gift hunting.

The Ultimate Vendor Guide: What to Buy at the Merry Market

The core identity of the Minnesota Merry Market is its commitment to showcasing local makers and promoting the buy local movement. With over 80 vendors each weekend, the diversity of products is staggering. This is your chance to find truly unique, high-quality items that you won't find at a big-box store. The vendor categories are broad, ensuring there is a perfect gift for everyone on your list, from the foodies to the fashionistas.

Top Product Categories and Entities to Seek Out:

  • Handcrafted Jewelry: Look for unique pieces from confirmed vendors that specialize in everything from minimalist silver work to bold, statement earrings.
  • Artisan Pottery & Ceramics: Mugs, bowls, and decorative pieces that make perfect housewarming or hostess gifts.
  • Textiles and Apparel: Handmade scarves, knitted hats, screen-printed t-shirts, and other unique wearable art.
  • Specialty Foods: Jams, jellies, local honey, artisanal chocolates, and other packaged gourmet treats. The market often features local food trucks outside, providing a wider range of dining options.
  • Home Goods & Decor: Items like soy candles, custom-made wooden signs, seasonal wreaths, and unique Minnesota-themed gifts.
  • Fine Art: Original paintings, prints, photography, and other visual arts from talented local artists.
  • Bath & Body: Handmade soaps, lotions, bath bombs, and natural skincare products.

The sheer number of gift vendors ensures that the market is a treasure trove of unique gifts. Many vendors are small, independent operations that rely on events like this for a significant portion of their annual revenue, meaning every purchase directly supports the local economy and a small business owner's dream. The focus on handmade goods ensures that your gift will be both personal and memorable.

When planning your trip to the Minnesota Merry Market, consider arriving early, especially on Saturday mornings, to get the first look at the most popular items. Remember that the vendor lineup changes between the two weekends in December 2025, so a second visit is highly recommended if you are serious about finding the best of the Twin Cities craft scene. The convenience of the North End Event Center and the festive atmosphere created by Homespun Events and the Beer Dabbler make this a truly unmissable holiday market experience.

merry market state fair
merry market state fair

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