New Christkindlmarket in Uhrichsville
Artisans are being sought for the first European-style Christkindlmarket to be held in downtown Uhrichsville on Third Street. The event is scheduled for Nov. 18 from noon to 6 p.m. The deadline for artisans to apply is Sept. 15.
The market will feature artisans who create handmade items like pottery and wood carving.
The same organizers of the Uhrichsville Farmers Market — Whitney Manson, Jessika Zontini and Laura Gray — are planning the Christkindlmarket event.
Those wishing to apply for a space should go to the Uhrichsville Farmers Market Facebook page and click the link to the Christkindlmarket. Vendor registration is available under the discussion link.
As is tradition, the market will be held outdoors.
“We’re going to have food trucks, music, and we’re going to have bonfires where people can sit out and roast s’mores,” Manson said.
Other plans also are in the works, but they haven’t been finalized yet. Axe throwing has been confirmed, and Bullseye Axe Throwing will be at the event.
Sponsors are welcome to join the event, and volunteers may be needed. Anyone interested should reach out through the Facebook page or email farmersmarket@outlook.com.
The idea for the Christkindlmarket came about before the start of the Uhrichsville Farmers Market.
“Myself, Laura and Jess are wanting to do more community events, and all three of us love Christkindlmarkets and the concept of them. I’ve been to a handful of them — not to any of them in Europe, one of the most authentic ones in the United States — and they’re just a fun place to be,” Manson said. “It’s a great place to buy gifts for people for the holiday. It’s a great place to support local business. It’s a fantastic place to bring your family. It’s lively, it’s energetic and it really puts you in the holiday spirit.”
The women wanted to do something special that was not already in the community.
They’ve been pleased with the success of the Uhrichsville Farmers Market.
“We didn’t know what to expect at that first market,” Manson said. “We were like on cloud nine. Our vendors were on cloud nine. Everyone was amazed and, at the same time, shocked because you never know what to expect when you put on an event.”
There was a good turnout at the first farmers market, which continued through the summer. Manson said one new vendor who was hesitant to participate joined and sold out at every event.
“That has been so awesome to see from the marketing committee standpoint, that you have this person who’s new to markets, who is new to their business, and they have stepped out of their comfort zone,” Manson said. “The community has shown up, and the community has supported them. That gives it new life, and it has been wonderful to see.”
Some of the brick and mortar businesses in downtown Uhrichsville have benefited too.
“I have talked to our businesses that have stayed open for the market — all our businesses are thriving — and their business for Friday night has increased. You can’t ask for anything more than that,” Manson said, adding the future looks bright for businesses in Uhrichsville.
Outdoor Christkindlmarkets date back to the 16th century and are known for their food and gifts, holiday cheer, and being places for families to make memories.
With the addition of the new Christkindlmarket at Uhrichsville in November, there is another chance for the city to shine and draw vendors and visitors from around the area.
