The holiday season brings a lot of joy, from cuddly sweaters to festive decorations and one-of-a-kind gifts for your loved ones. Luckily you can find all of this merriment in one place: The Red Barn Holiday Market.
What began as a small craft show in Everson nearly 10 years ago has since grown from 20 vendors to more than 70. In 2016, the market moved to the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, with both spring and fall shows hosted annually.
“I created this market to bring together the amazing local talent we have in our community,” says owner and event planner Kelsey Tolsma. “It has been amazing to watch it grow into what it is today. I have an awesome crew behind me.”
This year’s holiday market is long-awaited after the 2020 market was cancelled due to COVID-19. While Tolsma says the cancellation was necessary, she still wanted to find a way to support the vendors.
“I hated the thought of these small businesses who rely on these types of events to sell their items not being able to do business, so the idea of the Red Barn Market in a box was created,” she says.
This “Market in a Box” allows customers to choose from different gift box options that feature items from Red Barn Market’s vendors. For those who won’t be able to attend in person, gift boxes can be purchased at redbarnmarketinabox.com at the start of November.
This year, visitors can expect the inclusion of even more vendors. Available products range from home decor to vintage finds and more. Some featured businesses include Petals and Blooms, Fresh Space Redesign, Alsum Trading Company, Picnic Party Bellingham, GraceUnfaded, Evergreen Roots NW Candles, and many, many more.
“I love everything about the Holiday Market,” Tolsma says. “The vendor displays, the shoppers, the music, the theme, and decor—my favorite part is seeing how it all comes together.”
This year’s Red Barn Holiday Market will be hosted at the Northwest Washington Fairgrounds on Nov. 19 from 4–9 p.m. and Nov. 20 from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 19 is VIP night, so visit the Red Barn Market Facebook page to purchase tickets now.
Northwest Washington Fairgrounds, 1775 Front St., Lynden, facebook.com/redbarnmarketevents
