JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA HOLIDAY

GIVING BACK Has Never Been Sweeter

story and photo by The Junior League of Tampa The Junior League of Tampa’s Holiday Gift Market is thrilled to be back for a “sweet” Candyland-themed in-person event after going virtual last year. In its 18th year, Holiday Gift Market is excited to safely welcome nearly 200 merchants and more than 20,000 holiday shoppers to the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo and Entertainment Halls Nov. 11-14. For many shoppers, The Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market offers personalized and unique gifts they can’t find anywhere else, including art, home décor, clothing, jewelry, gourmet foods, toys and so much more. “With nearly 200 unique and hand-selected vendors, there really is something for everyone,” say Courtney Bilyeu and Kara Scahafer, Holiday Gift Market 2021 co-chairs.

This year’s Holiday Gift Market kicks off on Nov. 11 with Preview Party. HGM officially opens Friday, Nov. 12 and closes Sunday, Nov. 14. Tickets for the market, Preview Party and all special events can be purchased in advance online or at the door.

MORE INFO: www.jltampa.org/hgm FAMILY TRADITIONS

Beyond the unique shopping experience combining new and returning vendors, shoppers will enjoy some of Tampa’s favorite Holiday Gift Market family traditions - Preview Party, Breakfast with the Princesses on Sunday morning, and of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will be onsite for “Santa Snaps” on Saturday and Sunday, ready to hear this year’s wish lists. The 2021 Holiday Gift Market will also feature its largest ever Veterans Hall of Heroes, honoring those who have served our country and featuring opportunities to meet and support veterans. Kicking off Holiday Gift Market on Thursday, Nov. 11 is the event’s annual Preview Party, an exclusive Candyland-inspired event for shoppers featuring food, drinks, entertainment, gifts, raffles, and of course, the opportunity to shop early before crowds.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

While this event fills our personal holiday spirit bucket, it also fills the needs bucket of our entire Tampa Bay community.

“Our overall theme this year is Giving Back Has Never Been Sweeter,” say Bilyeu and Schafer. “We want to remind all members of the Junior League of Tampa, as well as shoppers, that HGM isn’t just a holiday market; it is our largest fundraiser. Many of our community partners were hit very hard during the pandemic, and now, more than ever, Holiday Gift Market will help provide some much-needed support to their organizations.”

Over the past 10 years, the Holiday Gift Market has raised $1.5 million that has gone directly back into the Tampa Bay Community; 100% of net proceeds from the Holiday Gift Market fund the Junior League of Tampa’s community projects and programs. Thanks to presenting sponsor Publix and silver sponsor The Florida Cattlewomen’s Association, the organization is able to raise awareness and help increase our impact not only this holiday season but throughout the year.

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