Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is calling on local and regional artists to apply for vendor space at one of the most anticipated community events of the season — the annual Holiday Market. Scheduled for Friday, November 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 401 N. Morton Street, right next to City Hall, the event promises a day filled with local art, festive shopping, and seasonal cheer.
Organized by Bloomington Parks and Recreation, the Holiday Market gives artists and makers from the area a unique opportunity to showcase and sell their handmade creations to hundreds of holiday shoppers. This year, both indoor and outdoor vending spaces will be available, offering flexibility and visibility for vendors.
“Artists may apply online to participate in the Holiday Market, or call 812-349-3725 to request an application.”
To be considered, all applications must be submitted by August 22 at 11:59 p.m., and each requires a non-refundable $20 jury fee. Artists will be selected based on several factors including the style and quality of their work, pricing, and how their offerings contribute to a diverse range of products at the market.
Applications are sorted into ten different art categories: clay; drawing, painting, and photography; fiber arts; metalwork and woodwork; glass; jewelry; natural materials; personal care items; recycled arts; and surface decoration. This curated structure ensures that a broad spectrum of talent and craftsmanship is represented, while also keeping the shopping experience fresh and engaging for visitors.
All products sold must be original, handmade by the applicant, and constructed with an emphasis on safety, durability, and quality craftsmanship.
“All work for sale at Holiday Market must be original, and made by the applicant. Work must be safe, have a decent life expectancy, and exhibit quality of craftsmanship.”
Beyond artisan crafts, the Holiday Market will feature seasonal, locally grown farm goods, artisan food and drinks, and other specialty items produced by small businesses in and around Bloomington. It’s not just a shopping event—it’s a celebration of local talent and community spirit, timed perfectly for holiday gift-giving.
Interested artists are encouraged to visit the official Parks and Recreation website to apply or contact the event coordinator directly.
“For more information about Holiday Market, or to receive an artist application, contact Crystal Ritter at 812-349-3725 or [email protected].”
However, officials are also warning the public about a growing problem: fraudulent online activity surrounding vendor space and ticket sales. According to Bloomington Parks and Recreation, scammers have been known to post fake listings on social media and online platforms, falsely claiming to sell vendor booths or tickets to the market.
“There is no cost for shoppers to visit the Holiday Market, and Holiday Market vendors are selected through a juried process. Booth spaces are non-transferrable. Do not send payment for booth spaces through any but Parks and Recreation’s official website.”
With the event growing in popularity each year, competition for vending space is expected to be high. Parks and Recreation officials stress the importance of applying before the August deadline to ensure full consideration.
The Holiday Market is more than just a place to shop — it’s an annual tradition that brings together artists, makers, farmers, and families to celebrate creativity and community in the heart of Bloomington.
