Halloween's over. Time to start Christmas shopping

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Stop-and-shop Colorado Springs gift show promises cool yule

By William J. Dagendesh

A beloved stop-and-shop gift show designed to give visitors a head start on their Christmas shopping soon returns to Colorado Springs.

The annual event showcases a spectacular variety of handcrafted items, holiday gifts and seasonal decorations. Attendees can explore an extensive selection of specialty goods while enjoying the inviting, chilly holiday season atmosphere. 

The 2026 Colorado Country Christmas Gift Show is set for 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 13 and 14, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Colorado Springs Events Center. The event will showcase work from local artisans and crafters, and offer an opportunity to find unusual and handmade gifts while supporting the artistic community.

The festive marketplace features hundreds of local vendors, holiday decor, gourmet treats, a Kid’s Market and photos with jolly old St. Nick. Shoppers praise the event for its local artisans and handcrafted items not found online or in the malls. This includes unique décor, handmade soaps, specialty toys, visual arts and more.

Gourmet treats ranging from baked goods to preserves and specialty honey are sure to be popular crowd pleasers. The gathering is designed to put visitors in the holiday spirit early in the season. One can envision kids in their toboggans knifing downhill through freshly fallen powder en route to a plate of fresh oven-baked cookies and a mug of steaming hot chocolate. “It’s a great way to shop locally and get a jump on your Christmas shopping,” marketing manager Meghan Gorman said of the event.

No gift show would be complete without high-octane entertainment highlighting the celebration roster. Free photos with Santa, holiday carolers and a tiny train exhibit will help conjure images of kids squealing with delight. 

Visitors have praised the festive atmosphere and the opportunity to discover locally sourced holiday décor, specialty honeys and handcrafted artisan gifts. “You don’t have to drive to Denver to shop for Christmas when you can do it here amid a homey, holiday atmosphere. This fun, festive event has something for everyone,” Gorman said.

Visitors also can enjoy the Holly Jolly cocktail bar with family and friends. In an online post, Samuel Granados, chief executive officer at BESO Skin Care in Fort Collins, said, “Be happy and don’t look stressed when engaging potential buyers.” 

All active military personnel, doctors, firefighters, first responders, nurses, police, teachers and veterans with a valid ID at the box office are admitted free. A discount advance price of $10 is available through Nov. 12. General admission is available for $12 from Nov. 13-15. 

The event supports Children's Hospital Colorado - Colorado Springs with optional donations and sponsor showcases. For the most up-to-date schedule, vendor directory or to purchase advance tickets, visit the website.

More Front Range holiday fun 

Denver Christmas Show at the National Western Center: Nov. 6-8

Holiday Artisan Market in Fort Collins: Nov. 27-28

Vibe Artisan Markets Holiday Market: Nov. 6-8

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