Market in the Park will actually be indoors in Burdett

By Anna Smith

Commentator/Courier

Boasting 23 vendors, all safely staying warm inside the Burdett Hall, the Market in the Park Christmas Market hopes to be the first stop for local holiday shopping.

This will be the third year that the event is hosted by Market in the Park, said organizer Kathy Nixdorf. 

“For many, many years, it was done by the Legion, and then, when they sort of disbanded, we took it over,” said Nixdorf. “We said let’s try it. Let’s try it. So last year, we did it. And we had so many restrictions, of course. The first year we did it in the Bow Island Legion. And then last year, because of all the restrictions and space, et cetera, we went to Burdett.”

The market does boast a food vendor who will be supplying treats throughout the event, as well as door prizes, which are potential wins to anyone who brings a donation for the food bank.

“So we have maybe six Christmas boxes that are full of these different door prizes that are donated. Otherwise, if they want to purchase tickets, pardon me for the door prizes. Any funds raised through the purchase of those tickets are going to the food bank,” said Nixdorf. “Last year, I believe we took tons of food over there. But we also I think gave them about $450 in cash, which as you can imagine, with a food bank, and especially around Christmas, really helped because I think that helped with the purchase of meats and perishables.”

The real goal of the event is to give back to their community, said Nixdorf. 

“But there’s some pretty cool vendors coming too so it’s fun, and it gets people in the spirit of Christmas and keeps them shopping somewhat local if we can,” said Nixdorf. “And you can find those special items. I know last year, I have a granddaughter that I purchased a handmade sweater for. Well, you know, that’s almost a lost art, right? It’s not that many people who do that anymore. And she just loves it.”

Organization was easier this year, said Nixdorf, due to the lifting of restrictions, and she’s looking forward to seeing everyone out there to kick off the holiday season.

The Market runs from 1 p.m. To 7 p.m. on November 18th.

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