Last weekend, Cobb County kicked off its holiday season in a big way with the return of the Cobb PARKS Holiday Artisan Market. Held at the Cobb County Civic Center from Friday through yesterday, the event welcomed a bustling crowd to support local and regional artisans. According to Cobb County's official news release, the market featured over 90 vendors showcasing a diverse array of products including handmade décor, artwork, ceramics, jewelry, candles, and more.
The market wasn't just a shopping experience; it was a full-fledged community event with live entertainment throughout the weekend. Performances by Prime Time Jazz, Atlanta Steel Pan, and the Jennie T. Anderson Theater's Home for the Holidays Choir added a special touch to the festive atmosphere. Moreover, every shopper had the chance to leave with a little extra, as the first 100 visitors each day were treated to a complimentary tote bag.
A notable highlight was the Merry Marketplace, an exclusive one-day feature within the market that took place last Saturday. This special event showcased the entrepreneurial spirit of the younger generation, with artists and makers aged 10 to 17 selling their unique, handcrafted items. This initiative, as documented, offered an empowering platform for young creators and presented visitors with the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind gifts, according to the same news release.
As an added bonus for attending the market, guests could participate in a raffle with the prize being tickets to "Home for the Holidays: A Holiday Musical Revue" at the Jennie T. Anderson Theater, set to run from Dec. 13 to 14. Beyond shopping and entertainment, the event also featured free holiday craft activities hosted by the Girl Scouts, where children and families could create their own festive crafts. Concessions, were available for purchase to those looking to enjoy a snack or beverage.
Cobb PARKS's efforts to bring together the community through this event were in close collaboration with its Cultural Affairs facilities, such as The Art Place – Mountain View, The Art Station – Big Shanty, the Mable House Arts Center, the Sewell Mill Cultural Center, and the Jennie T. Anderson Theater. These centers underpin Cobb County's cultural scene with year-round programming, offering the community a variety of theater productions, visual arts, classes, and special events. For additional details on this year's Holiday Artisan Market or to stay informed about future events, interested individuals can reach out to [email protected] or call 770-509-2714.
