ENCINITAS, CA — A new holiday tradition is coming to Encinitas this December with the debut of the Encinitas Holiday Village & Market at Moonlight Beach.
The free event will be held from 2 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, in a portion of the Moonlight Beach parking lot, ahead of the city's annual Heritage Tree Lighting festivities, which begin at 4 p.m.
Organized by the Encinitas Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Encinitas Historical Society and in partnership with the city, the market is inspired by traditional European Christmas markets with a coastal Encinitas theme.
About 20 local artisans and small businesses are expected to sell handmade gifts, jewelry, candles, holiday décor, specialty foods, children's gifts and other items. The event will also feature strolling carolers, hot chocolate and warm cider, gingerbread house decorating, children's activities and a holiday photo area.
"We are so excited to introduce the Encinitas Holiday Village & Market and create an experience that brings our community together while supporting local businesses during the holiday shopping season," Chamber CEO Carol Knight said.
The market will lead into the annual Heritage Tree Lighting, a longtime Encinitas holiday tradition.
"The Heritage Tree Lighting has brought generations of families together, and the Holiday Village & Market will add another wonderful reason to gather and celebrate," said Carolyn Cope, president of the Encinitas Historical Society.
The event will kick off a weekend of holiday activities in Encinitas, followed by the Encinitas Holiday Parade on Saturday, Dec. 5, and Kringle Mingle on Sunday, Dec. 6.
Admission to the Holiday Village & Market is free. Overflow parking will be available at the Pacific View Arts Center.
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