The annual Deerfield Winter Holiday Market was held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 7 at the Patty Turner Center 375 Elm Street in Deerfield.
The event showcased local talent offering unique hand-crafted gift items for the holidays in a festive celebratory atmosphere.
The event was hosted by Village of Deerfield in partnership with the Deerfield, Bannockburn, Riverwoods, Chamber of Commerce, and admission was free.
The multifaceted program offered a holiday gift market featuring local vendors, live music and entertainment, visits with Santa Claus, a Christmas train and life-sized snow globe inflatable, children’s crafts and activities, an array of civic and non-profit organizations, and food for purchase.
Jessica Sciarretta, Village of Deerfield management analyst and event coordinator describes the Deerfield Winter Market as a way to support residents in the community during the holidays while featuring the best of what Deerfield has to offer.
“More than anything the Winter Market brings our community together in the spirit of the season, gathering those new to Deerfield with long-time residents to celebrate the special talents alive right here in our village,” Sciarretta said.
Sciarretta says each year in Deerfield, the Winter Celebration and Holiday Market are part of a two-day celebration of festive spirit.
“The Winter Celebration invites our community to gather at Village Hall, to enjoy live performances by the Deerfield High School Choraliers and the Frozen Robins, and to enjoy complimentary giveaways from long-time Deerfield businesses,” Sciarretta said.
“The Market showcases local talent here in Deerfield, and over half of the vendors are local Deerfield residents,” Sciarretta added.
Dennis Shaw of Deerfield attended Saturday with family.
“This is the first time we have attended Deerfield’s Winter Holiday Market, but felt it would be something festive and fun for the whole family to do together,” Shaw said.
Jared Swihart of Deerfield’s Swihart Custom Woodworks, participated Saturday as a vendor, sharing his home décor creations during Deerfield’s Winter Holiday Market.
“This has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with the local community and share our work during the holiday season,” Swihart said.
“The Winter Market is family-friendly and designed to bring the community together – from handcrafted items to delicious treats, there’s something for everyone, making the Winter Market a cherished tradition that celebrates the heart of Deerfield.” Sciarretta said.
Gina Grillo is a freelancer for Pioneer Press.
