(PHOTOS BY BRIANNA BALOGH / THEVILLAGE REPORTER)
SHOPPING … Shoppers visit Joshua Taylor Woodworks one of the many local vendors offering homemade goods and treats.
CHRISTMAS TREE … One of several Christmas Trees being auctioned by the Bryan Area Foundation.
SNAK HAUS … Saint Nick’s Snak Haus offering traditional and German inspired options.
By: Brianna Balogh
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Whether you are looking for a unique gift, sweet Christmas treats, or just the feeling of a Hallmark Christmas Movie, the Christkindl market has it all.
A German tradition dating back to the 1500s, the Christkindl angel delivers Christmas trees and presents to children on Christmas eve.
Christkindl markets can now be found all over the world. Bryan’s very own Christkindl market kicked off on November 29th.
Activities can be found to delight young and old at the market. Different events happen every evening with many downtown businesses running specials during the market.
Stop by to catch a performance from the Bryan City School Band, the Bryan City Schools Choir, the courthouse carolers, Montpelier Jazz Band, Edon Junior High Choir, or one of several local artists. Play some reindeer games on the north lawn or take a horse drawn wagon ride around the square, available from 5-8pm.
To warm up from the cold, huddle around one of the fires provided. Enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate. Or better yet visit the Bryan Theater on Saturdays for a free Christmas movie at 7pm.
A pet paw-rade and live Nativity was held on Friday December 6th. Sponsored by Louie’s Playhouse and Bryan Development, the paw-rade saw several dogs dressed in their holiday best exploring the holiday market.
Entry fees of money or donations benefit the Williams County Humane Society. A live nativity was presented by the Bread of Life Community Center including a real life donkey.
They also provided a donation box for unwrapped toys to be used for the Christmas giving program for local children in transient housing situations.
The festival of trees ran from November 29th through December 7th, located at the Bryan Area Foundation, 127 S Lynn Street, with decorated trees available for auction
Situated in chalets around the square, treats and gifts of all types can be found. To satisfy your sweet tooth, vendors display everything from specialty chocolates to honey.
Woodworking masterpieces, personalized cutting boards, wreaths, plenty of Christmas decor, toys, jewelry and hot cocoa are available on site. Santa’s Snak Haus provides plenty of sweet and savory options as well, like bratwurst, popcorn and Belgian waffles.
There is something for everyone to enjoy. Visit businesses around the square to vote for your favorite in the tree decorating contest, sponsored by the Bryan Area Foundation. Participating businesses are Ajavs Salon and Spa, Bill’s Locker Room 3, Coldwell Banker Classic Properties, ElliAnn’s Boutique, Season Coffee & Bistro, Spangler Candy World, Tri-State Vision Center, F & M Bank, Cove, Endless Creations, Kora, and Magnolia Roots.
Scan the QR code at the tree to vote. Take part in a painting class or the kids gingerbread house contest. At the bandstand, enjoy a holiday party, Art of Movement dance performance or a theater performance. Live music is playing Friday nights. Kids can visit Santa every night from 5-8 pm in his house.
The Christkindl market is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 4-8 pm until December 21st. With two weekends left for this season, there is still plenty of time to visit the market and enjoy some Christmas cheer.