Kick off the holidays right. Indulge in decadent chocolate, run around in a tacky sweater, or shop ’til you drop this weekend.
[Northwest; Saturday]The Ugly Sweater RunAs always, Portland keeps it weird—this time by running through the city in ugly sweaters and fake mustaches. On Saturday, The Ugly Sweater Run invites Portland to find their tackiest holiday knits and show them off in a 5K. Participants will receive a special hat, beer or cider, and unlimited hot chocolate. Holiday music, snow blowers, a giant inflatable Santa, and photo booths will set the scene for the celebration. Think you have the best beard, mustache, or sweater? Enter the contests! The run helps the Save the Children organization. November 30, 9 a.m. From $35. theuglysweaterrun.com. Oregon Convention Center, 777 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Portland.
Photo via CityScape
[Southwest; Friday]Alternative Black Friday Vintage (& More) MarketLet’s be honest, who actually enjoys Black Friday? Skip waking up at 3 a.m. and shopping in overcrowded stores. The Alternative Black Friday market at CityScape makes the day much more enjoyable, featuring goods from local vintage and handmade vendors. Start the day leisurely with brunch (and a mimosa bar!) at The Corner. Stroll on over to CitySkate Ice Rink for half off skating and still have the chance to get deals from the usual CityScape stores. Better yet, the first 300 shoppers get an ABF goodie tote. November 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free entry. cityscapephoenix.com. CityScape, 1 E. Washington St., Phoenix.
Photo via Creede Chamber of Commerce
[Mountain; Friday-Saturday]25th Annual Creede Chocolate FestivalForget Turkey Day. Save room for the Creede Chocolate Festival. Visit town shops along the streets of the beautiful Colorado town. Restaurants, stores, and galleries will offer chocolate tastings. Vote for your favorite treat after trying them all! November 28-29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets $8. creede.com. 904 S. Main Street, Creede, CO.
Photo via SF Etsy Team
[Northern California; Saturday-Sunday]SF Etsy & Popupster’s Indie Holiday EmporiumEmbark on a cruise through the goods of local Etsy shop owners and makers. The nautical-themed holiday craft fair sets sail this weekend at the old SF Cruise Terminal (Pier 35) on the Embarcadero. Over 200 artists from the Bay Area will be present at the second annual emporium in addition to artisan food and a crafting station from GoGoCraft. November 29-30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Free entry. sfetsy.blogspot.com. Pier 35 on the Embarcadero, San Francisco.
Photo via We Heart Eagle Rock
[Southern California; Saturday]We Heart Eagle Rock Block PartyIf you haven’t been to Eagle Rock yet, visit the cute neighborhood this small-business Saturday. Boutiques, including Owl Talk, Local Kicks, and Purple Twig, will open their doors, hosting festivities and promotions. Shop the Gift Bazaar, then wrap up all your fun presents at Leanna Lin’s Wonderland Gift Wrapping Station. Have kids? Have fun. Behind The Green Bean, you’ll find family activities, including a snake showing, face painting, and glass blowing. End the day with a silly photo to give to your parents from Rony’s Photo Booth at Cherry Soda Studios. November 29, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Free entry. facebook.com/wehearteaglerock. Eagle Rock, L.A.