Columbus – Christmas cheer got off to an early start with the first annual Kids’ Makers Market in Columbus, NC, on December 2. A total of 31 vendors from ages four through sixteen offered hand-made holiday gifts.
One of the youngest vendors was six-year-old Brantley, who proudly displayed his beaded ornaments, jewelry, and keychains. He designed them all himself and showed off Spider-Man, football, and dinosaur-themed creations in addition to Christmas-themed decor.
Brantley’s mother, Effie Carter, helped set up and supervise his participation in the craft fair. It was the family’s first time participating in a makers market.
“I thought it would be a neat opportunity for him to grow in art and for him to see that if he works hard at making things, he can benefit from it,” said Carter.
Vendor Madison, age sixteen, displayed her crochet work, including brightly colored squids that proved to be popular with shoppers.
“I like whimsical things and color,” said Madison. “And squids are fun.” Madison has done similar markets before and was looking forward to doing more markets close to home.
Throughout the afternoon, nearly 300 shoppers came through the event and enjoyed Christmas music, hot chocolate and cotton candy, and face painting in addition to the vendors. The Kids’ Makers Market was created by Polk County Parks and Recreation.
Recreation assistant Lourdes Gutierrez suggested bringing the event to Polk County after her son participated in two similar craft markets in Asheville. Gutierrez suggested the idea to recreation coordinator Laura Baird, and the two began planning in October of this year.
“I thought it was a good way for the kids to work out some creative energy and make some money ahead of the holidays,” said Gutierrez.
The Kids’ Makers Market also offered an opportunity to engage the larger community. A local homeschool co-op incorporated the event into their curriculum. Polk County High School Key Club and Polk County Kiwanis Club volunteers served hot chocolate and offered free face painting.
Many of the crafters donated items for a raffle to support the Parks and Recreation department’s work on trails throughout the county.
“We’re adding about ten to twelve miles of mountain bike trails on White Oak Mountain,” said Baird. “Construction has started on Phase One, so now we’re raising funds for Phase Two.”
Baird said Polk County Parks and Recreation will offer quarterly events throughout the year, including a fairy festival in spring of 2024 and additional maker markets.
“Our motto is ‘Come Out and Play,’” said Baird. “We’re looking to create opportunities for the community to come out and interact with each other.