AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 9, 2026
Dayton’s Holiday Market Welcomes Shoppers Back in 2026
The Dayton’s Holiday Market is set to return for its sixth year, bringing the spirit of the holiday season to downtown Minneapolis. From November 12 through December 24, the historic Dayton’s building at 700 Nicollet Mall will host over 100 local makers, brands, and nostalgic food and beverage options in a festive shopping environment. The event is curated and founded by Mich Berthiaume of Mich’s Markets.
Debut of the Mary Tyler Moore Santabear
A highlight of this year’s holiday market is the launch of the limited edition Mary Tyler Moore Santabear. The collectible is inspired by Mary Tyler Moore’s iconic hat-tossing scene from “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” which was filmed outside Dayton’s. Dressed in a navy peacoat, black handbag, and blue tam cap, the Santabear pays tribute to the beloved actress and character. The Santabear will premiere during a sneak peek shopping event on November 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., which will be attended by Dr. Robert Levine, Mary Tyler Moore’s husband. The bear will be available for $129, with 10% of proceeds going to the Mary Tyler Moore Vision Initiative, supporting efforts to end vision loss and blindness caused by diabetes.
2026 Santabear and Special Appearances
The original “life size” Santabear will greet shoppers at the market, offering family photo opportunities. The theme for the “next generation” 2026 Santabear, designed by Shop in the City, will be unveiled and go on sale on Black Friday, November 27. The new Santabears come in the 1985 Dayton’s size ($69.95) and a smaller version ($49.95), and can be preordered at the market or online. These popular bears are expected to sell out quickly.
Activities for Children: The Little Door Store and Free Book Buggie
The market features the Little Door Store, funded by the Minneapolis Foundation, where children can select and package gifts with help from volunteers, encouraging the spirit of giving. Additionally, the Free Book Buggie will distribute more than 2,500 books to children, promoting literacy and the joy of reading. The Free Book Buggie operates Friday to Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Spotlight on Minnesota Creators and Holiday Market Vendors
This year’s market continues to showcase Minnesota talent. New vendors include Christopher Straub, Grandma Skills, Kats Ceramics, Millie’s Farmyard Bakery, Namaste, and wmdean. Returning favorites such as Blue Heron, Cedar and Cypress Designs, Coccinella Olive Oil, Here’s the Deal Spice, Stellar Goods, and Thumbs Cookies will be featured. The J.B. Hudson space hosts charitable shopping with groups like Anti Cancer Club, A Kindness & Co. Candles, Fresh Eye Gallery, Highland Friendship Club, and Matthew & Co. Soap.
Nostalgic Food and Festive Flavors
Collaborating with Jester Concepts, Dayton’s Holiday Market brings back flavors from Minnesota’s beloved restaurants of the past, including Dayton’s Oak Grill and Nankin Cafe. Offerings include Wild Rice Soup, Mini Popovers, Ginger Cookies, baked dim sum, chicken wings, lo mein, Szechuan wontons, Dan Dan noodles, fried rice, and classic drinks like Nankin Wanderers Punch. Popular local establishments such as Parlour and Revival will serve favorites like the Parlour Burger and fried chicken sandwiches.
Event Dates and Hours
- November 11, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.: Special sneak peek shopping event launching Mary Tyler Moore Santabear
- November 12 – December 24: Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Open until 8 p.m. on Black Friday, November 27
- Closed on Thanksgiving
Dayton’s Holiday Market invites visitors to enjoy holiday shopping, local creations, festive food, and a wealth of seasonal experiences in the heart of Minneapolis.
Source: millcitytimes.com.
