By Joanne Rodgers,
Bruce Peninsula Press
Summer House Park has become a popular venue for the annual two day Christmas Market hosted by the Lion’s Head Farmers’ Market. Locals are used to the fickle weather of the Bruce, so Saturday with cold temperatures and a brisk wind, and Sunday with constant snow, did not deter patrons from turning up to enjoy this uniquely Northern Bruce Christmas Market. Vendors were happy with their sales and visitor turnout. Patrons expressed their appreciation of the variety and quality of goods for sale. Over the years the Market has swiftly gained the reputation for a high quality specialty market and is now a ‘must visit’ seasonal event for many of the customers who return year after year. Manager Charlene Jordan received numerous compliments on the Market and deemed it a huge success.
With over 40 vendors, many of them regulars at the summer Lion’s Head Market and some vendors participating for the first time at the Christmas Market, the market offers a dazzling array of gift ideas and entertaining supplies. A diverse options of home made and artisanal baked goodies, sauces, spices, meat products, beer, honey and seasonal fruits and vegetables were available – something for every taste. A wide assortment of hand crafted home decor and personal care items such as hand crafted candles, soaps, seasonal wreaths and decorations made for a difficult decision; customers said everything was so wonderful it was hard to choose.
Patrons were happy to share information on their finds, especially those unique and useful stocking stuffers. The chance to support local small businesses, buy Canadian, buy hand-made and hand crafted items all added to their shopping experience.
Community members and visitors coming from the nearby urban areas, indulged in a warm sandwich, soup, mulled white wine and/or sweet desserts while soaking up the relaxed social vibe. The great venue, the opportunity to chat with vendors, and to browse at one’s own pace, munch on a goody and socialize with each other made the seasonal shopping excursion a joyous affair.
On Saturday, for the second year, singers of Sweetwater Harmony entertained the market goers with their repertoire of music.
This community event has a tradition of giving back to the community, as patrons are invited to give a non-perishable food donation in lieu of an admission fee. This year, patrons donated approx 444 kg of food which was given to the Lion’s Head and District Food Bank.
