Summer shoppers at the South Cariboo Farmers' Market got a holiday treat this year with a first-ever Christmas Market presented by the organization.
A steady stream of customers took a look at the variety of items and foods on display at the 100 Mile Community Hall on Dec. 13.
Karen Greenwood is the president of the South Cariboo Farmers' Market.
With so many holiday events and sales going on this time of year, they weren't sure how many people would come out for their inaugural event, she says. However, they were pleased with the turnout.
“It's nice and cozy here in this location. The hall is decorated. People are in the Christmas spirit.”
Close to 30 vendors, mostly local ones, had products on display.
The atmosphere and goods available were a lot like the Farmers' Markets outside the hall that folks visited in the summer, organizer, Tina Johnson explains.
“It's pretty much the same idea, just with a Christmas twist to it. We have so much fun in the summertime. It's kind of nice to do something indoors and have all our old friends come visit.”
What could be found, along with a concession and live music, was baking, chocolate, canning, arts and crafts, woodwork, meat, information booths and some produce.
The event was also about community spirit, Johnson says.
“If people shop, that's great. But it's nice to visit and have coffee with friends. That's what we're about.”
Johnson adds she doesn't exactly know why they hadn't tried a Christmas Market in the past. It seemed like a natural progression for them, however, and when the thought was brought up originally, everyone thought it was a good idea.
“I polled the rest of the members and everybody was like, 'Yea, let's do it.' A lot of us farmers are just way too busy and we're happy to have the summer over. We thought, well, let's give it a try and see what happens.”
Greenwood says if folks want them to put on another winter event next year, they'll surely do it again.
“I think all our customers from the summer are glad to come and we're glad to see them, too.”