Holiday craft shows and pop-ups in Toronto will get you out of the mall for your gift shopping. Whether you're looking to get your loved one something unique or are stuck trying to nail a secret Santa present, these limited-time-only outposts will help you get the job done right.

Here's where to get your gifts this year if you're not up for the crowds at the Eaton Centre.

CRAFT SHOWS AND MARKETS

Toronto Christmas Market (November 20-December 20)
The European inspired Christmas market is returning to the Distillery District for another year on November 20th. As per usual, the streets will be filled with vendors selling local handcrafted goods and one of a kind trinkets and treasures. If you're not in the mood to shop, you can get into the festive spirit by watching carollers and sipping on mulled wine.

Union Station Holiday Market (November 30-December 20)
Union Station is exceedingly hectic around the holidays (for obvious reasons), so this market may not be everyone's cup of tea. For those that thrive in crowds, head to Toronto's transportation hub to see what local artisans have up for sale. If you're still on the fence, you can get a taste of what it'll be like by checking out our gallery from last year.

401 Artisans Marketplace (December 3-6)
If you're on the prowl for something truly unique, 401 Richmond's Artisan Marketplace is probably your best bet. The art-centric space will host 30 vendors, selling everything from eco-conscious skincare to Japanese inspired pottery. If you don't manage to find anything at the market, you can always try out Swipe, Musideum, and the Spacing Store, which are all under the same roof.

City of Craft (December 11-13)
If you like craft shows, this one blows most others out of the water. On the second weekend of December 30 craft vendors will take over The Theatre Centre, selling all the things you never knew you needed. There will also be craft-based installations and free workshops, if you need a break from spending.

Vendor Queens (December 14, December 21)
Vendor Queens is much more than your average market. The event, taking place at the Evergreen Brick Works, features live music all day, skating, live sculpture, portraiture, confessional shadow plays, and more, making shopping only a part of the experience. Even if you leave empty handed, you'll probably have a blast.

POP-UPS

Craft Ontario Holiday Pop-Up Shop (November 5-December 24)
Craft Ontario's pop-up boutique is your one stop shop for gifts and will be open right up until Christmas (in case you need to do any last minute buying). The store, located at 990 Queen Street, features handmade pieces from 48 makers and designers. You'll find the space filled with household items, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more.

Pre-Holiday Pop-Up Market by Toronto Urban Collective (November 8)
Want to jump start your holiday shopping early? This one-day-only pop-up at 99 Sudbury will feature goods from local artists, craft-makers, photographers, designers, and more. There will also be DJs on the scene, so feel free to get your dance on mid-shop.

YYZ Imports Pop-Up Shop (November 21)
Looking for something stylish that's not off a Zara rack for your fashion-forward friends? YYZ Imports and Joao Paulo Guedes will be bringing their best pieces to 974 Bloor Street West for a day-long pop-up.

Graven Feather Winter Pop-Up (December 4th-20th)
Graven Feather will be filled with wares made by local artists for the majority of December. What's for sale? Everything from upcycled fabric bags made by Kelly Mullan to Paperhouse Studio stationary. On the 20th, the pop-up shop will convert into a market, and artists will be onsite selling even more goods.

ADDITIONAL MARKETS, CRAFT SHOWS, AND POP-UPS

• Artisans' Holiday Market at SickKids (November 6)
• The Toronto Etsy Street Team Present A Crafty Intervention (November 7-8)
• Bellwoods Flea (November 14)
• Pegasus Christmas Sale (November 19-21)
• Indigenous and Ingenious Art Show and Sale (November 21)
• 21st Swansea Craft Sale (November 21)
• NYSC Holiday Bazaar (November 21)
• Deck the Halls Miniature Arts & Craft Show (November 21)
• Walnut Studios Holiday Art Sale and Party (November 21)
• Roncy Yule Market (November 21-22, December 19-20)
• 30 Craft Market at May Cafe (November 22)
• One Of A Kind Show (November 26-December 6)
• The Leslieville Flea Holiday Market (November 29)
• The Sassy Little Craft Show (November 29)
• Firsthand Fair (December 5)
• Santa in the Junction (December 5)
• The Bit Bazaar (December 5-6)
• Mondo Bazaar (December 5-6)
• The Artisan Gift Fair (December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20)
• MidnightMRKT's Midday Market (December 6)
• Toronto Etsy Street Team Christmas Marketplace (December 12)
• Annex Flea (December 12-13)
• Toronto Young Designers Holiday 2015 (December 13)
• Winter Folk Fair 2015 (December 13)
• The Sacred Lifestyle Holiday Market (December 13)
• The Wooden Sky's Annual Holiday Show (December 14)
• 30 Craft Market at Steelworkers Hall (December 19)

What did I miss? Add additional holiday craft shows and pop ups to the comments.

Photo by Andrew Williamson