Four local markets open for holiday gift shoppers

More than 375 artisans will display handmade items at the Howard County Fairgrounds beginning Friday, November 6. The Crafts Spectacular runs through Sunday, November 8, with gates opening at 9 a.m. daily. Hours extend to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, while Sunday closes at 4 p.m. The event is scheduled to take place regardless of weather conditions.

Admission costs $5, with a multi-day pass available for $7. Children under 10 enter for free, as does parking. Shuttles will transport visitors and their purchases to their vehicles. Two magic shows are planned for each day on Saturday and Sunday. Additional details are available at atozcrafts.net.

Calvary Lutheran Church will host its annual Christmas Market on Friday, November 20, from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The venue is located at 16151 Old Frederick Road. A country kitchen will serve baked goods, jams, jellies, and cheese balls. Local craft vendors will sell holiday gift items, and the event features a silent auction. Santa will be available for photographs starting at 4 p.m. Lunch and dinner are for sale, with crab cakes cited as a popular item.

Lauren’s Garden Service will host a Maker’s Market at the Shops at Westwood on Saturday, November 28, and Sunday, November 29. The location is the former Westwood Church building at 13554 Triadelphia Road. Local artists will sell items in the nursery and inside the shops from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This marks the fifth year of the event, but the first time it will operate on Sunday and Small Business Saturday.

The 54th annual Holiday Mart Show is scheduled for Saturday, December 5, at the Gary J. Arthur Community Center on Route 97 in Glenwood. Juried artisans will sell unique handcrafted items and seasonal gifts from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Door admission is $5, while online tickets cost $4. Children four and under enter free. A photo booth, children’s craft corner, and food trucks will be on site. Refreshments and lunch are available for purchase.

Tracy Trobridge accepts news tips for this column via email at tracy21738@yahoo.com or by phone at 410-489-7444.