A new kind of Market
Shoppers can kick off the holiday shopping season the weekend before Thanksgiving with a new take on a long-standing tradition.
The Junior League of Birmingham (JLB) has christened a new name and logo for its annual holiday market — Market Noel. The event will welcome more than 100 local and national merchants — including ones based in Hoover — to set up shop in the conveniently located Cahaba Grand Conference Center as familiar strains of Christmas music play.
“The rebrand has attracted a lot of new vendors,” said Mary Evans, Market Noel chair. “Our hope is to keep old favorites while bringing in fresh, new merchandise from around the country.”
All proceeds from Market Noel will support the 34 community projects of JLB.
Returning to the Cahaba Grand Conference Center for the fifth consecutive year, the festivities begin Wednesday, Nov. 20, at 7 p.m. with a merry Sneak Peek party.
General admission shopping runs Nov. 21-23 from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday.
Highlights of the week include Market Morning, featuring country music singer Sara Evans, and a book signing by Homewood’s Father Goose, Charles Ghigna, and his wife, Debra. Ghigna has recently co-written a children’s book with his wife, titled Christmas is Coming! Both authors will be on hand to sign copies.
On Friday, John Croyle of the Big Oak Ranch will be signing copies of his book, The Two-Minute Drill to Manhood: A Proven Game Plan for Raising Sons. On Saturday, families can enjoy free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Visit marketnoel.net to purchase tickets and to review a complete listing of participating merchants and event details. Tickets are also available at the door, and all special event tickets include admission for shopping.
You can also find Market Noel at facebook.com/MarketNoel, JLBirmingham on Pinterest or #jlbmarketnoel on Twitter.
-Submitted by the Junior League of Birmingham