For the second year in a row, the Burlington Holiday Market will welcome merry-makers to downtown Burlington, to participate in family-friendly activities, visit the vendors, and enjoy the lights.
Last year, the market attracted over 15,000 people despite the need for more COVID precautions at that time — this year, after other big events have been back in force, the organizers are aiming even higher. Starting on Thurs., Dec. 8 at 4 p.m., the market will be open until 9 p.m. each night, with closing ceremonies on Sun., Dec. 11, at 7 p.m.
It is clearly a hotly-anticipated event; questions regarding whether the market will be returning in 2022 started appearing on social media back in the summer.
Market co-chair Peter John Van Dyk noted that the organizers recognize that rising costs are making things difficult for many families this year, and want to make sure the Burlington Holiday Market is accessible — so “of course, it’s free to attend.” They want all families to be able to come and enjoy a festive day out.
And what can families expect? Well, Santa, of course: be on the lookout for the big man. Families can also look forward to new interactive activities for children, including a scavenger hunt, and lots of surprises.
As well, there are returning vendors, including Olive-Me & Co., Salt & Mustard, and Singers Caesar Mix. There will be some Burlington Downtown Business Association vendors, like Oddspot, Do + Dare Undie Co., and Bodhi Bar. New this year are Toques from the Heart, Mind Your Bees, and Candles and Palms.
The market is spread across downtown, at 431 Elizabeth St., the Elgin Promenade, and Civic Square, in front of city hall. Van Dyk loves that you can stop at one location, visit the vendors, see the lights on the promenade, and then look up to see your next destination.
Another new holiday treat this year is Taste of Burlington’s Jingle Bus Tour, which will take place on Thurs., Dec. 8 and Sun., Dec. 11. These tours will take participants to local restaurants, including Lochside Bar & Grill and the Nickel Brook Brewing tap room on the Dec. 8 tour, and Spencer’s at the Waterfront and the new Burlington Brewery on the Dec. 11 tour, for food, drink, and fun surprises; each tour will end at the Burlington Holiday Market so participants can carry on with their holiday spirit.
And what is co-chair Van Dyk looking forward to the most about this year’s holiday market? Getting people back out in the community and supporting local businesses, and seeing everyone join in with the community and their families to enjoy the festive spirit.
The Burlington Holiday Market still has a few sponsorship opportunities available — if you are interested, please email Meagan Madill at meagan@curatedbym.com. You can also check out the market’s website, burlingtonholidaymarket.com, or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
