ASI’s Julmarknad celebrates the spirit of Swedish slöjd, or handcraft, by promoting artists who make their own goods by hand. ASI also upholds traditional handcraft all year round with our Nordic Handcraft programs. Workshops, demos and lectures led by skilled instructors bring Nordic-inspired folk arts to life through innovative and creative programs in textiles, wood, birch bark weaving, basketry, glass and more. Learn more about ASI’s Nordic Handcraft Programs.

The sights and sounds of the holiday market, or Julmarknad market, come to ASI for 3 days during the first weekend in December at one of the region’s largest handcraft markets and holiday festivals. Shop over 60 local artists for beautiful, fun, and useful handmade goods.

Perfect for all ages, Julmarknad offers pop-up musical performances, family crafts, story time, festive foods, holiday shopping at ASI’s Museum Store and Jul Shop, and a visit to ASI’s iconic holiday exhibition in the Turnblad Mansion.

A European tradition that can be traced back to the Middle Ages, julmarknader are a hallmark of the Swedish holiday season. In Sweden today, these markets run outdoors throughout November and December and are filled with festive handmade goods from local vendors. More than just a shopping experience, a julmarknad is an important community gathering space. ASI’s Julmarknad brings the same joyful spirit every December to Minneapolis, featuring local artists from many backgrounds—although the ASI market is all indoors!