Library gears up for upcoming holiday market
By John Watson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Strathmore Municipal Library is gearing up to host its annual holiday market, Nov. 29, adding to the festivities which will be taking place throughout the day.
Laura Henderson, public services manager for the library, explained the event will be very similar to previous years’ events, taking place in the program room, featuring local vendors and artisans.
“We have 20 tables, so it is a smaller market, but because of all the other events going on that day through the town, we just like to piggyback off of those and just have it as another stop for shoppers,” she said. “This is probably the seventh year we have done it. I know there was a couple of years off due to COVID-19, but I think we started it before (the pandemic). This is the fourth one that I have run.”
Henderson explained the market has observed a growth trend as it continues to operate. Typically, the library is able to offer a few tables to vendors right up until the doors open on the market. This year however, table space was sold out prior to the end of October.
Participating vendors have historically featured goods and wares ranging from canned foods, knitwear, baking, handcrafted objects, and assortments of other handmade or artisan products.
“What we are trying to build is just that support local (opportunity) and there are four markets going on that day. Vintage and Vines, the Calgary Farmers’ Market, Wheatland Lodge, and ourselves,” said Henderson. “We all have markets and so we are all sort of advertising for each other and hoping to make it just one big festive shopping date for the community.”
She added the folks behind Vintage and Vines have taken the lead in creating a sort of market passport. For those who visit each market, they can be entered into a draw for prizes as the events conclude.
The markets will join a host of events taking place throughout Strathmore on Nov. 29, including Lakewood of Strathmore’s donations for the Wheatland County Food Bank, the Santa Claus Parade, and the start to the Celebration of Lights.
“We like to do this weekend just to join in on the festivities as they are all launching through town … we tried to do something like this last year, just ourselves, but I really like this opportunity to work together in a more official capacity,” said Henderson. “Our vendor fees are low; we don’t charge a lot per table. We really just have a community event and it’s great to get people into the library – it’s an opportunity for us to highlight library activities.”
The library’s market will be running from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. and will also offer popcorn and hot chocolate for those who drop by.