One of a Kind Spring Show (Chicago)
- A curated market of handmade goods, jewelry, housewares, and unique finds from independent makers. - Runs April 24–26, 2026, making it a weekend destination for spring shopping. - At the Chicago Merchandise Mart (event details at choosechicago.com).
Chicago’s One of a Kind Spring Show returns to THE MART on Friday, April 24, with more than 350 independent artists and makers under one roof. (choosechicago.com) The event runs through Sunday, April 26, on the 7th floor of THE MART at 222 West Merchandise Mart Plaza. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 24 and 25, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 26. (oneofakindshowchicago.com) Organizers say this year’s spring edition includes more than 350 jury-selected exhibitors from across North America, including 35 emerging artists and more than 150 participants who are new to the show. (oneofakindshowchicago.com, upcomingevents.com) The show is built around direct sales from makers rather than mass-market retail, with booths spanning jewelry, fashion, home décor, ceramics, photography, gourmet goods, and fine art. That format puts shoppers face to face with the people who designed and made the work. (oneofakindshowchicago.com, do312.com) That matters in late April because the show lands at the start of Chicago’s outdoor-event season and just ahead of Mother’s Day, graduation, and wedding shopping. Organizers pitch the spring market as a place to buy gifts and seasonal pieces tied to those occasions. (choosechicago.com, chicagolovespanini.com) THE MART lists the show as a public event expected to draw thousands of shoppers, extending the building’s role beyond its usual furniture and design showrooms. The venue’s own calendar says the market runs from 10 a.m. Friday through 5 p.m. Sunday. (themart.com) Tickets are on sale through the show’s website, and one premium option is priced at $30 and includes admission for all three days plus a reception or breakfast event at the SKS Showroom inside THE MART. The show’s visitor guide says standard tickets are valid for re-entry each day. (oneofakindshowchicago.com) For visitors arriving by train, the show’s frequently asked questions page points to the Merchandise Mart stop on the Chicago Transit Authority Brown and Purple lines, which connects directly into the building. Parking is also available through THE MART, according to the same guide. (oneofakindshowchicago.com) By Friday morning, the pitch is simple: three days, one building, and hundreds of makers selling work you probably will not see in a chain store. (oneofakindshowchicago.com, choosechicago.com)
