Holiday market season arrives in Waterloo Region

With the arrival of the snow, the jingle bell rings, pine tree smell, and cookie-eating vibes are set to be in full swing across Waterloo Region, especially at these holiday markets.

The third annual Winter Market presented by Joyful Vendors returns to Elmira Saturday, Nov. 29.

Maxine Metzger, founder of Joyful Vendors, created the business to help local artists and artisans sell their products in the community. She was a guest on The Mike Farwell Show and said she’s had no trouble filling the vendor slots this year.

“I never would have imagined that right from my first show, a number of years ago, that we were selling out and we were selling these vendor booths months in advance of our shows, even some for next year are getting filled,” she said. “So, there was quite a list.”

Metzger said for them, local rules.

“We love to support the local and everyone from within Waterloo Region first, that’s our mandate,” she said.

She went on to say that visitors can always expect something new.

“Of course, we try to get a wide variety of vendors in there, so you might not see the same vendor at our show more than two or three times because we try to cycle through those that have also been on the waiting list.”

If this weekend doesn’t work for you, next Thursday, Dec. 4, another holiday staple returns to the region; the Christkindl Market will open in downtown Kitchener.

Dozens of vendors will be on-site with unique gifts, delicious treats and festive home decor.

Live entertainment will be taking place at the market throughout the weekend, and there will be family-friendly activities to enjoy.

The City of Kitchener has a full list of vendors and activities available.