Here are 6 of the best holiday markets to hit up in Denver

We've tracked down a handful of holiday markets to help you get a head start on shopping while supporting small, local businesses this season.

Why it matters: With Christmas and Hanukkah nearing, the clock is ticking for gift buying. And some markets are only open this weekend.

The big picture: Shoppers are expected to spend an average of $1,652 this season, exceeding pre-pandemic figures for the first time, according to Deloitte's annual holiday retail survey.

Here are six of our favorite local markets:

Denver Christkindlmarket: Nov. 17-Dec. 23

• Shop dozens of local and international vendors with a beer and bratwurst in hand at this German-style holiday market in Civic Center Park.
• Of note: This year marks the first time the market will be cashless.

Cherry Creek Holiday Market: Nov. 16-Dec. 24

• Featuring 40-plus local creators, this outdoor venue on Fillmore Plaza is complete with all your holiday shopping needs.
• Be smart: Stop by the Mistletoe Lounge, a cozy gathering space with a full bar and live music.

Sugar Plum Bazaar Holiday Market: Nov. 18-19

• 80 vendors will set up shop from 10am-4pm at the Arvada Center selling a variety of artwork, jewelry, clothing and baked goods. Alcoholic beverages will also be available.

Dairy Block's Holiday on the Block: Nov. 25-26, Dec. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17

• Held from noon-5pm for the next four weeks, the Mistletoe Market will host more than a dozen local vendors in the heated alley, plus live music, photo ops, a screen-printing station and gift wrapping.

MCA Denver's Holiday Local Maker's Market: Dec. 9

• The art museum's one-day-only event runs noon-7pm and features handmade goods from local makers, seasonal cocktails, holiday music and gift wrapping.

The Block Distilling's Housemade Market: Dec. 10

• For the distillery's last seasonal shopping opportunity of the year, it's going all out with flash tattoos, antique photo-ops, a raw oyster bar, a Peruvian pop-up — plus plenty of local vendors to shop from.