A variety of local vendors and makers are set up on Old Second Street during the Thanksmas 2021 Holiday Market in downtown Fall River. – Patti Rego
Thanksgiving isn’t even here, and Christmas excitement is already kicking into high gear.
But you don’t have to skip over Turkey Day to get a jump on the yuletide spirit. What if you could celebrate both of these much-anticipated holidays at once?
At Viva Fall River’s upcoming Thanksmas Holiday Market, they’re combining them for double the festivities and fun.
Start checking off that Christmas shopping list — while supporting local businesses and makers — on Saturday, Nov. 12, from 4 to 8 p.m., as the Holiday Artisan Market returns to Old Second Street.
Visitors will encounter a cozy, festive atmosphere along the pedestrian walkway, featuring fire pits, and can browse over 70 SouthCoast vendors selling an array of goods, including holiday décor, under the twinkling lights.
The event will also feature food trucks, a live DJ, free arts and crafts, and a special visit from the Grinch that is guaranteed to make any heart grow three sizes that day.
And in keeping with the generous holiday spirit, Viva Fall River is encouraging guests to bring winter items to the event to donate to the United Way Clothing Drive.
A collection bin will be placed on site and donations will be distributed to families in need by the United Way of Greater Fall River. Items requested include men’s and women’s winter coats, fleece coats and vests, baby, toddler and children’s coats and snow suits, as well as hats, scarves, gloves and socks.
Now in its second year, the outdoor event is hosted by Viva Fall River, the City of Fall River, the Fall River Farmers and Artisans Market and the Craftyish Shop.
Jeremiah Sullivan Drive will be closed to traffic from South Main Street to Third Street to create a safe space for family activities. The current lineup of activities includes:
- Music and dancing with DJ Juice
- Meet and Greet with The Grinch, from 5 to 7 p.m.
- Craft activity from the Greater Fall River Art Association
- Children’s activities from the Children’s Museum of Greater Fall River and The Trustees of Reservations
- Free face painting with artist Helio Pacheco
As an added treat, a number of food trucks will also be on hand serving up delicious fare, sweet treats and hot chocolate to help set the festive mood.
Food vendors include Cluck Truck, Donnell’s Bakery, Friskie Fries, Green Jar Cocina, JQ Cheesesteaks, Mario’s Lebanese Bakery, Pop’s Brick Oven Pizza, Red’s Kitchen, Tiki Turbo and What’s Up Cupcake.
Free parking is available at the Third Street open lot across from the public garage, the lower lot at One South Coast Chamber building (200 Pocasset St.), and the open lot to the left of the Pearl Street parking garage.
A free parking shuttle will pick up and drop off throughout the event to the Pocasset Street and Pearl Street parking areas.
To read the full story, click HERE.