Even with frigid temperatures, last year’s inaugural Bellefonte Lights Winter Market was a hit, and this year it is back with even more vendors and more fun. The event is sponsored by Downtown Bellefonte Inc. and takes place Saturday, Dec. 14, as Victorian Christmas is going on downtown.
The European-style, open-air market runs from 4 to 9 p.m. and offers more than 50 craft, food and beverage vendors on the Lamb Street Bridge, near the former Gamble Mil.
“Our first year was chilly but everyone, from vendors to visitors, was in such warm spirits,’ said chairwoman Melissa Hombosky. ‘There was a moment when it just began to lightly snow and people were just in love. It can be hard during the busiest time of the year to slow down and just enjoy the season, and I think this event lets you unwind and have a good time while getting some shopping done.’
The event adds to the holiday atmosphere found in Bellefonte during the busy weekend, said Ellen Matis, of Downtown Bellefonte Inc.
“Bellefonte is truly a wonderful place to experience the holiday season, and the winter market adds to the already magical Bellefonte Victorian Christmas events,’ Matis said. ‘With the winter market added to the festivities, they can stroll ‘Under the Lights’ to look at the trees decorated by local businesses and organizations along the waterfront and in Krauss Park, shop with a ton of vendors offering truly unique items and have a warm beverage crafted in Pennsylvania.”
In order to grow from 15 vendors last year, to more than 50 this year, the event staff worked tirelessly to find interesting new aspects to add after the inaugural event. Hombrosky said an expanded makers market is something that she is excited about.
“We have some excellent examples of hand craftsmanship and really talented makers,” she said. “Our committee strived to find unique and talented small business owners to join the market.
“Besides the large maker market, we have some of the best food trucks in the area, including Bellefonte’s very own Brazilian Munchies, Scott’s Roasting and Rosie’s Pierogies,” she continued. “We also have local and regional breweries, distilleries and wineries. Some are members of the Central PA Tasting Trail, like Big Spring Spirits and University Winery, and others like Race Street Brew Works and Shy Bear are from outside our immediate area. Finish up your Christmas shopping and have a drink and bite to eat.”
Also new this year will be walking historical tours of the Waterfront area and inside the former Gamble Mill building.
“This is a great opportunity to learn more about the past and how it will connect to the future of the area,” Hombrosky said.
She said other new things are on tap as well.
“Confer’s Jewelers is sponsoring a photo booth so you can have a fun memento of the night. There will be warming tents to keep warm and a gift wrapping station to help with the one holiday task everyone saves until the last minute,” she said. “There will be fun stuff happening at every turn.”
Vendor Luciano Sormani enjoyed the event last year and is glad to be back in the fold for round two. It allows him a chance to sell his crafts in a fun atmosphere. He expects an even bigger crowd.
“The Bellefonte Lights Winter Market is a great opportunity for local makers like me to show and sell our work in a party atmosphere,” Sormani said. “The inclusion of quality food and beverage vendors ensures a great turnout, even during freezing temperatures. After last year’s pilot was a success, I expect more people will find us this year.”
