Glitter, gifts and great finds: Chicago’s 'Sparkle & Shop' at the Mart

As the glitter of the holiday season lingers, Chicago welcomes shoppers and makers alike to kick off 2026 with a fun, festive indoor market at one of the city’s most iconic venues. The 2026 Chicago New Year Sparkle and Shop event runs January 2–4, 2026 at The Merchandise Mart, offering a vibrant blend of community spirit, creativity, and seasonal celebration.

A Celebration of Local Makers and Festive Energy

This multi-day event — free for all attendees — transforms the Merchandise Mart’s spacious halls into a lively marketplace where visitors can:

• Browse a curated selection of vendors, featuring fashion, accessories, handcrafted goods, home décor, artwork, candles, beauty products, and more.
• Engage with interactive Sparkle Stations, including live demonstrations and opportunities to make New Year-themed keepsakes.
• Indulge in local gourmet treats and refreshing drinks from Chicago food vendors — perfect for taking a break between browsing.
• Enjoy festive music and photo ops, creating a welcoming, celebratory atmosphere for friends and families.

Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, supporting small businesses or just soaking up the cheerful ambience, the “Sparkle and Shop” event is designed to make the start of 2026 shine.

More details here: Eventbrite

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