Shop small businesses until you drop, and head to Alameda Brewing for an afternoon of pet-friendly holiday cheer
You better lace your shoes tight! This weekend in Alameda, check off your holiday gift lists with Small Business Saturday at brick and mortar stores, plus a multitude of holiday markets. The fun begins with a pair of pop-up markets at Two Marys’ Mercantile on Friday, November 28 and Saturday, November 29. Keep the party going on Saturday with the Bay Area Makers Market at Humble Sea Brewing Co. When you need a break, be sure to head to Alameda Brewing for pet photos with Santa and a meet-and-greet with adorable, adoptable dogs.
On Sunday, November 30, swing by Island Savoy for a festive latte, premium groceries, and their intimate Holiday Market. The same day, the Alameda Elks Lodge is hosting a very special market for everyone who misses the spooky season—Mockingbird Lane: Haunted Holidays promises unique, whimsical, and ghoulish gifts for friends, family, or yourself.
Pop-Up Markets at Two Marys’ Mercantile
Friday, November 28 and Saturday, November 29
When you’re shopping small this weekend, don’t forget to check out local businesses outside of Webster and Park Streets. Two Marys’ Mercantile, the adorable shop at 2021 Alaska Packer Place near Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter, is planning two separate pop-up markets to jump start your holiday shopping.
On Friday, November 28, Two Marys’ is hosting an “Anti-Black Friday Pop Up” featuring Mystic Marigold Co., an accessories and apparel brand that’s challenging modern fast fashion. The brand features ethically sourced materials, uses 100% natural fibers, and provides a stable source of income for their workers. Check out their gorgeous bags, clothes, and more on their Instagram. The pop-up is scheduled from noon until 5 p.m.
On Saturday, November 29, 18 small businesses will join Two Marys’ Mercantile for Small Biz Saturday from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. with live music by local music group That Dad Band. Shop a fantastic curation of jewelry, pottery, clothing, home goods, art, and more. Koku Bakeshop will be serving up delicious baked goods, and the beloved waterfront restaurant, Mosely’s Cafe, is just down the sidewalk.
Paws & Claus
Saturday, November 29
Grab your pooch! Four-legged friends are welcome at Paws & Claus on Saturday, November 29, at Alameda Brewing, 1716 Park Street. The dog-friendly afternoon of holiday cheer is scheduled from 2 until 5 p.m.
Take a break from all the holiday shopping—or maybe just recover from your family’s Thanksgiving dinner—with one of Alameda Brewing’s signature drinks and adorable animals all around. If you don’t have your own canine companion, or if you’re looking for a new pet sibling, be sure to stop by Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS)’s station to see the adoptable dogs.
Saint Nick himself will be there for a fantastic photo op with your furry friends. No tickets are required, and the event is free to attend. To help a shelter animal in need this holiday season, check out the FAAS Pet Food Pantry Drive.
Bay Area Makers Market
Saturday, November 29
The Bay Area Makers Market is headed to Humble Sea Brewing Co., 2350 Saratoga Street #174, on Saturday, November 29. Shop a selection of small businesses from noon until 5 p.m.
More than 25 vendors will be selling everything from handmade ceramics to high-quality secondhand kids’ clothes. Bookworms should plan a stop at Wallflower Bookshop for their next read. Check out Mackbox Desserts for incredibly decadent baked goods and their signature snack mix. You’ll be able to check off your holiday shopping list with jewelry, hot sauce, and all sorts of treasures. See a full vendor list online.
After all the hard work of shopping, head inside the taproom to see what Humble Sea has to offer. The brewery is kid- and pet-friendly, with plenty of outdoor tables and a small, fenced dog play area.
Mockingbird Lane: Haunted Holidays
Sunday, November 30
If The Nightmare Before Christmas is your favorite holiday film, you should probably mark your calendar for Mockingbird Lane: Haunted Holidays on Sunday, November 30. This all-ages holiday market is scheduled from noon until 5 p.m. at Alameda Elks Lodge, 2255 Santa Clara Avenue.
Mockingbird Lane carves out a unique niche as “An Emporium of Ghostly Gifts & Holiday Spirit.” A curated lineup of 37 ghoulish vendors will be offering art, jewelry, apparel, oddities, and more. Whether you’re shopping for a pair of bone earrings or a witchy tote bag, you’re certain to be the talk of the white elephant gift exchange.
Island Savoy Holiday Market
Sunday, November 30
If you haven’t yet visited Island Savoy Market at 1200 Lincoln Avenue, it needs to be on your list! The friendly neighborhood spot opened in 2022, and they’ve been offering great groceries and customer service ever since. On Sunday, November 30, stop by the store for their Holiday Market from noon until 4 p.m. for even more goodies.
A great selection of vendors is lined up:
- Latisha Baker Artworks | Pyro-etched handmade jewelry.
- Little Arts by Olive | Stationary, home decor, and portraits.
- Tea & Toast Soap Co. | Handmade soaps and balms.
- Sipreme Chocolate | High-quality cocoa.
- Marigold Pottery | Handmade ceramics.
- Deuce Goods | Upcycled soy candles.
- Michael Tunk | Hand-cut collage art.
While you’re at Island Savoy, take a moment to grab a holiday latte, check out the delectable deli sandwiches, and browse their curated collection of top-quality groceries. And get your furry friend a free dog or cat treat from the jars near the coffee counter!
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Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Amanda-Laird. Reach her at [email protected].
