Asheville – As the holiday season approaches, the French Broad River Garden Club Foundation is gearing up for its annual Holiday Greens Market, a beloved event that has been a staple of the community for nearly a century. This year’s market, taking place on the first weekend in December at Clems Cabin, promises to be a festive gathering filled with holiday cheer and local craftsmanship.
A Festive Array of Offerings
Now in its 97th year, the Holiday Greens Market will showcase an impressive selection of holiday items. Attendees can expect to find everything from stunning wreaths and Christmas trees to unique ornaments and decorations. The market will also feature handcrafted wooden bowls, toys, cutting boards, nutcrackers, and potted paperwhites, alongside an assortment of pottery. For those with a sweet tooth, a variety of home-baked goods will be available, ensuring there’s something delightful for everyone.
Charlotte Riddle, chair of the 2024 Greens Market, highlights the foundation’s mission to support environmental education and conservation efforts. “This year we are delighted to see vendors returning to help us raise money for a variety of regional causes and continue our tradition of helping local students in scholarship,” she said.
A Community Gathering
The Holiday Greens Market is more than just a shopping experience; it’s a chance for the community to come together. Riddle invites families to share holiday traditions, enjoy live music, and savor refreshments from a coffee truck. It’s an opportunity to create lasting memories while embracing the spirit of the season.
The market has deep roots in the community, dating back to 1927 when Sarah Speed initiated efforts to promote sustainable gardening practices. Her vision led to the establishment of the French Broad River Garden Club, which has since become a vital part of the local landscape. The club’s commitment to education and conservation has resulted in over $300,000 in scholarships awarded to local students since 1955.
Local Artisans Shine
This year’s market will feature talented local artisans showcasing their crafts. Jennifer Miller from Hot Springs will present her beautiful wreaths, while Russell Lyda from Hendersonville will offer natural decorations made from twigs, branches, and berries. Vickie McCall from Balsam Grove will contribute fresh greens, wreaths, and garlands to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Other notable vendors include Bud Gray with his handcrafted wooden bowls and Paul DeWitt, who creates charming nutcrackers. Wesley Angel from Newfound Forge will showcase unique metalworks, and Jake Greear will offer handmade wooden cutting boards. Attendees can also enjoy members’ homemade baked goodies, as well delicious coffee and hot chocolate provided by Delbert Greear. Music will be provided by the well known Carol Rifkin, which adds a special flare to this years Greens Market.
The market will also feature a bakeshop where garden club members will sell homemade treats like cakes, cookies, brownies, and cheese straws. Highlights include spiced pecans from Lynne Froeba at Farm Girl Foodie and herbed vinegars from Scott Waldrop.
The Holiday Greens Market will take place at Clems Cabin on Saturday from 9 AM to 3 PM and Sunday from 11 AM to 3 PM December 7th and 8th. Located at 1000 Hendersonville Road, across from Browntown Road, it’s an event not to be missed. For more information, visit the French Broad River Garden Club Foundation’s website at www.FrenchbroadriverGC.org.