11 markets to get you into the spirit of festive shopping this November

November has crept up on us and soon it’ll be Christmas. In true Singaporean fashion, let’s all be the first to get our shopping done before the rest does. Here are eleven neat markets to score some gifts and trinkets you may not be able to easily find at the malls.
 

Market of Artists and Designers (MAAD) (Nov 2)

You’re all invited to the Red Dot Museum for yet another Market of Artists and Designers (MAAD). Singapore’s largest creative marketplace, expect to find original works by talented regional artists and crafters. Products here range from ceramics to literature, accessories to illustrations. A grassroot initiatives of sorts, MAAD consistently and successfully showcases raw talent. Discover obscure but up-and-coming designers, one of a kind pieces and speak to the original creators themselves, all in the inspiring surrounds of a glass-encased exhibition gallery.

Where: 11 Marina Bvd. 

 

The Local People: Holland Village Art Market (Nov 2)

If anyone knows how to do a market, it is these guys. Shop jewellery, crafts, leather goods and accessories, or serendipitiously find a hidden gem. This edition is particularly awesome, because it is taking place alongside a drive-through outdoor movie screening and a live music set performance; but the deal clincher—free popcorn, kacang puteh and cotton candy floss. 

Where: Open Air Car Park, Holland Village

 

Bras Basah.Bugis Arts Sprawl (Nov 9-10)

Make that trip down to the Bras Basah area for this annual, eclectic lineup of arts and heritage offerings. For two days, the already bustling arts district will gather even more local creatives, including barbers from Autocutt, tarot card readers, design brands, temporary tattooists, and more. Some of Singapore’s best indie outfits all gathered along one street? Sign us up.

Where: Hardy Rd. 

 

So Gelam Market (Nov 9-11)

A street market that has set itself apart from the others with friendly kampung vibes and a long-gone community spirit, So Gelam Market is a monthly weekend pop-up in the heritage enclave of Kampong Glam. During the event, Baghdad Street will be closed to cars, and as usual, transformed into a vibrant avenue of tented stores and batik buntings. This November’s edition sees a festival-of-lights theme, in time for Deepavali.

Where: Baghdad St. @ Kampong Glam.

 

Boutique Fairs, The Gifting Edition 2018 (Nov 9-11)

Boutiques outdo themselves every year, with a lineup that gets longer each time. This year’s vendors have doubled, so be prepared to double your Christmas shopping too. A bursting lineup of 250 independent labels spilling over 5000 square meters of retail space where brands like Whole9yards, Indi Bindie, Ashepa Lifestyle and the eco-friendly Salient Label await. Aptly enough, this year’s theme is all about gifting, so you bet you’ll be able to find something here.

Where: F1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd.

 

Affordable Art Fair Singapore 2018 (Nov 16-18)

Affordable art, an oxymoron or nah? Returning for its ninth edition with over 80 local, regional and international participating galleries, this alternative platform gives well-deserved exposure to local and regional artists. Art pieces like paintings and handmade crafts are guaranteed to be priced from just $100, with more than two-thirds of art pieces kept below $7500.

WhereF1 Pit Building, 1 Republic Blvd.

 

Organic-Friendly Farmers’ Market (Nov 17)

For those who simply love shopping for fresh herbs, cold-pressed oil and artisanal homemade jam, this farmer’s market, centrally-located at Hotel Jen, no less, is your go-to. Get to sample before you buy. Central to the market is a message about sustainability, ultra-fresh produce and the opportunity to cut your carbon footprint. Come Christmas, even your fussiest relatives will appreciate the locally-made sauces, chutneys and spices you scored at this organic farmers’ market. Otherwise, swing by to soak in the vibes, live music by acoustic musicians or try out face-painting.

Where: Hotel Jen, 277 Ochard Rd.

 

TGIF Bazaars @ White Sands (Nov 17-18)

Located under a covered walkway around the mall, this bi-monthly outdoor pop-up event is a boost for the weekend crowd in Singapore’s far east. The best thing is that it is slated to continue even in bad weather. So rain or shine, work your way through more than 25 curated booths that offer apparel, local souvenirs, accessories, caricature art, street food and other knick knacks.

Where: White Sands Shopping Center, 1 Pasir Ris Central St. 3.

 

Sunday Social Market (Nov 18)

Sunday Social is returning to Camp Kilo Charcoal Club; and regulars, you know the drill—great nosh, delicious craft beers, local brands and some good ol’ house. Joining the lineup this time include a tarot card reader, artisanal bakers, interior decorators, fashion accessories, local handcrafted skincare brands, and of course, tasty, hearty roasts from Camp Kilo. Fun will be had for all, so we suggest you drop by for the good vibes and if you’re feelin’ it, get your fortune told.

Where: Camp Kilo Charcoal Club, 66 Kampong Bugis.

 

Sentosa Fair – Xmas Edition (Nov 29)

Sentosa’s inaugural Christmas fair will kick off your Christmas shopping in style. Hawking a solid medley of Christmas gifts and trinkets, there will be a careful curation of over 30 vendors offering bubbly, tea, jewellery, art, fashion, bags and even furniture. Santa may even pop in for a surprise. The first 100 cars who flash the e-flyer of this event at the Sentosa gantry gets free entry into the island.

Where: W Hotel Sentosa, 21 Ocean Way.

 

Etsy Craftivist SG (Nov 30-Dec 1)

All you Etsy addicts, you read that right. This is the highly-anticipated, third edition of Etsy Crafitivist, and an encouraging space for our burgeoning local creatives and crafters. The curating team adheres to the highest standards, so only select crafters will have their chance to shine. At this market, the emphasis is on bespoke products, so don’t be shy to request for more than a little customization (that the vendors will gladly deliver). Unique merch you can snap up as gifts include paper craft with embroidery, personalized engraving on metals, and totebags with hand-drawn designs—all handmade and #MadeinSingapore.

Where: 11 Stamford Rd.