Supporting Local Small Businesses & Artisans

There’s something truly special about shopping small—especially during the holidays. Every handcrafted ornament, candle, and coffee cake you buy from a local artisan carries a story, a tradition, and a piece of our community’s heart.

At the Galena Holidaze Festival, our Artisan Market features 12 regional makers whose creativity transforms downtown into a wonderland of craftsmanship. From handmade jewelry and wreaths to baked goods and original artwork, each booth reflects hours of dedication and love for the craft.

Even more meaningful? Each booth is built by students from the Jo Daviess Carroll Career & Technical Education Academy, giving young people the chance to learn, create, and take pride in their work.

Here’s a look at this year’s featured artisans — each bringing something beautifully unique to the festival:

Our 2025 Artisan Booth Vendors

• AMB Ambition – Galena, IL Local creators Edgar Mendez and Kaitlyn Pingel bring their “In a Holidaze” branded apparel to life with cozy hoodies, beanies, and totes that make perfect souvenirs and holiday gifts.

• B2 Crafts and Wreaths – Freeport, IL Barb Stewart handcrafts wreaths, garlands, and arrangements that capture the cozy charm of a Hallmark Christmas, each piece lovingly made and one of a kind.

• Bastian Candle Works – Hanover, IL Ryan Bastian pours over 100 soy candle scents — from balsam fir to sugar cookie — all designed to fill your home with warmth and the scent of the season.

• Bead and Board LLC – Dubuque, IA Amy O’Rourke creates handmade ornaments, earrings, and home décor pieces that blend rustic charm with modern craftsmanship — all made by hand.

• Dave’s Coffee Cake – Rock Falls, IL Dave Barajas, Jr. bakes fresh, flavorful coffee cakes in a variety of festive flavors. They’re the perfect gift (or breakfast centerpiece) for Christmas morning!

• Free Spirit NY – Ankeny, IA Jaeger Nesbit designs handmade jewelry and keychains featuring semi-precious stones, engraving, and playful acrylic pieces — unique and giftable treasures.

• Hinge LLC – West Des Moines, IA Kelsey Mihalovich offers embroidered sweatshirts and holiday apparel that combine comfort and creativity. Every stitch adds a little extra holiday cheer.

• Jacks Designs – Dubuque, IA Kathleen Stuart and her family craft handmade hair bows, earrings, and festive accessories — full of sparkle, fun, and family-made heart.

• Kelsey Benton Art – Dubuque, IA Kelsey Benton brings her vibrant artwork to life through hand-painted porch signs, ornaments, and magnets — each piece celebrating the colors of the season.

• Merry for a Cause – Galena, IL Amanda Ehrler creates gifts that give back — ornaments, bracelets, shirts, and décor that raise awareness for causes close to her heart while spreading joy.

• Striking Chunky Blankets & Throws – Galena, IL Jill Wubben hand-knits soft chenille blankets and yarn trees right here in Galena. These cozy creations are as comforting as they are beautiful.

• Susie Breads / Loaded Barrel Charcuterie – East Dubuque, IL Carl and Susie Droessler bring the best of both worlds — home-baked cookies and breads paired with charcuterie boards crafted from Galena Cellars wine barrels.

• Willows – Dubuque, IA Michelle Jackson and Mariann Cigrand fill their booth with fragrant homemade potpourri and hand-cut holiday ornaments — timeless touches of Christmas tradition.

  
  

When you shop local, you’re not just buying a gift—you’re investing in your neighbors, your community, and the next generation of creators.

✨ Support local artisans, shop small, and make your holiday purchases matter this season.👉 Learn more at www.galenaholidazefestival.com