The second — and final — weekend of the Millarville Christmas Market gets underway today.
The popular market, which features nearly 300 vendors, runs daily from Nov. 9 to 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Millarville Racetrack and Agricultural Society grounds.
“It’s definitely a rustic, authentic country destination market, at the base of the Foothills,” said Melonie McKee, farmers market and events manager at the Millarville Racetrack and Agricultural Society.
“This event has become a family tradition, and it’s been that way for 35 years. We have about 40 new vendors this year, different games, crafted puzzles and different types of clothing.”
Some of the crowd favourites, including Santa and his reindeer, are making a comeback, but only on the weekends.
“Santa’s workshop is open daily for photos with Santa, face painting,” McKee said. “Then on Saturdays and Sundays only this year is the Kids-Only Shop.”
Through the Kids-Only Shop, children 12 and under will be able to browse a selection of gifts while the adults wait outside.
“Everything in there is $15 or less and it will come out of the shop gift wrapped, so that they can keep it a surprise for whoever they bought it for,” McKee said.
The reindeer and hay rides are also returning, but also only on Saturdays and Sundays.
“Daily there’s music, food trucks, we’ll have fire pits going,” McKee said.
The market will be using the timed entry system implemented in recent years after positive response from vendors and patrons.
Entry is $6, with kids 12 and under free.
For tickets and information visit millarvilleracetrack.com/christmas-market.
