If you are a local artist, farmer, baker, crafter or creator – or like to support them – you should know about the PNW Artisan Marketplace and the Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show! Twice a year, these events help local makers and small businesses get their products into the hands of those who appreciate the work and love that goes into them. And behind these pop-ups are a couple of passionate people making it all possible.
Pop-Up Markets Start During COVID
There are not many good things we can say came out of COVID, but the PNW Artisan Marketplace is one of them. Dominic and Marisa Papetti wanted to do something to help small businesses affected by all the shutdowns. Their answer was the PNW Artisan Marketplace, founded in 2020. “Following all state and local guidelines at the time, we opened in a small barn on La Conner-Whitney Road with just 22 local makers,” shares Marisa. Marisa is also a beekeeper and sells honey through her business, Marie’s Bees. “The marketplace was created to provide a safe, welcoming environment where local businesses could continue reaching customers and generating income.”
As COVID ended, though, it was clear the market was so much more than something temporary. As a place that created opportunity for local entrepreneurs to reach new customers, it wasn’t going anywhere. The 2026 market took place during the Skagit Tulip Festival and included over 90 artists, makers, food producers and small businesses, shares Marisa. “Visitors will find an entire store filled with local art, specialty foods, handcrafted goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts created by talented Pacific Northwest makers,” she adds.
And it allows for business networking for the vendors as well. They share struggles, celebrate wins and even ask for advice. They also don’t have to man their booth, which can be hard for one-person businesses. “Instead, shoppers can browse at their own pace without feeling pressured to make a purchase,” explains Marisa. “Artists visit throughout the event for demonstrations, special appearances, and customer interactions, but the overall experience remains relaxed, welcoming, and enjoyable. The marketplace is often described as ‘all the art without the pressure to buy.’”
For visitors and residents of Skagit County, the PNW Artisan Marketplace is a great place to find treasures and enjoy a beautiful setting at its current home next door to the gorgeous Christianson Nursery in the Vinery building. Shoppers will discover all kinds of treasures, from artwork and photography to jewelry and garden art. Gourmet treats to enjoy while you shop or later and home décor for yourself or a wonderful gift.
The market is free to attend, family-friendly and dog-friendly. “The goal is to create a beautiful and inspiring space where visitors can discover the incredible talent that makes the Pacific Northwest home to so many exceptional artists and makers,” adds Marisa. “Whether visitors are looking for a unique gift, original artwork, specialty foods, or simply a wonderful day out with family and friends, the marketplace offers something for everyone.”
2026 Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show
Continuing to grow, Marisa and Dominic are now the hosts of the popular Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show, which is entering its 32nd year. “The event has long been a favorite holiday tradition, and we are grateful to be carrying it forward after longtime host Ann Thompson, owner of Cedar Springs Jams, passed the torch,” shares Marisa. “Our goal is to preserve everything people have loved about the show while adding our own touch of holiday magic.”
Held in Anacortes every November, the Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show will have a layout similar to the PNW Artisan Marketplace, Marisa says. “The holiday show features a thoughtfully curated selection of primarily local artists and makers, with many vendors who do not participate in the spring event,” she adds. “The result is a fresh shopping experience that celebrates the creativity of our region while embracing the spirit of the holiday season.”
The gift show is a great way to get a jumpstart on holiday shopping while avoiding crazy crowds at box stores and shopping local. It’s a win for everyone. You’ll find holiday décor, gifts, seasonal items and winter-inspired creations. Even if an artist attends both events, you will find their offerings are different!
This year’s event is November 12-15, 2026.
Curating the Perfect Vendors for Skagit Pop-up Markets
Finding the right vendors is something Dominic and Marisa take seriously. “Every vendor application is carefully reviewed,” Marisa explains. “The goal is to create a balanced and diverse shopping experience while prioritizing artists, makers, growers, food producers, and small businesses.” They try to limit similar vendors, so shoppers have more choices. They focus on quality, originality, presentation, and overall fit for the event,” she adds. “Supporting local businesses and showcasing the creativity of the Pacific Northwest remain at the heart of every marketplace.”
“At the end of the day, the mission is simple: to create beautiful spaces where artists can thrive, shoppers can discover something special, and communities can come together,” finishes Marisa. “PNW Artist Marketplace loves showcasing the talent that calls the Pacific Northwest home and helping connect those artists with the people who appreciate and support their work.”
You can learn more on the PNW Artisan Marketplace website or Facebook page, and the Nutcracker Holiday Gift Show website. If you are interested in being a vendor, visit the website for an application and follow on social media for announcements. You can also email them at pnwartmarket@gmail.com with questions.
PNW Artisan Marketplace
Annually in the Spring
Next door to Christianson’s Nursery in the Vinery Building
15806 Best Road, Mount Vernon
Nutracker Holiday Gift Show
Annually in November
Depot Arts Center
611 R Avenue, Anacortes
