By Melissa Smalley
Despite frigid temperatures that left many vendors nearly frozen solid, organizers of the inaugural Heritage Christmas Market at the 108 Heritage on Dec. 11 say the event was a resounding success.
For the majority of the day, the turnout was very steady, Ulli Vogler, president of the Heritage Site Society president.
"Between 11 a.m. and about 2:30 p.m., there was great support from the community. We had so many visitors coming.
"Everything was good until about 3 p.m., then an icy wind picked up, and we ended up packing up early around 3:30."
Vogler notes that upwards of 36 vendors participated in the market – inspired by the open air Christmas markets of Europe – and says the feedback was very positive from both the vendors and attendees.
She adds there are already a dozen vendors signed up to participate again next Christmas.
Santa was on hand to take pictures and visit with little ones, and local vocalist Ingrid Mapson entertained the crowd with Christmas carols.
A wide range of vendors were on site selling a variety of goods, including jewelry, books, baking, skin-care products, arts and crafts and an array of food and other goodies.
Vogler says the event wouldn't have been able to take place if it hadn't been for the help of many volunteers, including the 108 Lions Club and many others.
"It was really just a great success, and yes, we want to do it again."