Local Artisans Bring Handmade Gifts to Spooner Markets Annual Holiday Extravaganza
The holidays are quickly approaching, and with the magic of the season comes the challenge of finding gifts family and friends will love. On Sunday, Nov. 23, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Spooner Markets will present the third annual Holiday Extravaganza Market at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds.
This curated shopping experience features select local vendors offering one-of-a-kind items not found anywhere else. Many artisans and crafters also have a heart for giving back to the community. With live music and food and beverage trucks, the day promises a festive and joyful shopping experience.
Sherry Spooner founded Spooner Markets in January 2023. The company hosts four markets each year — the Ladies Market in February, the Summer Charity Market in June, the Fall Festival in September and the Holiday Extravaganza in November.
Spooner’s goal is to produce shopping events where a variety of small businesses and new creators can showcase their work. The markets often support nonprofits such as the Hamilton County Harvest Food Bank and Fountains of Hope International.
With 35 years of experience organizing events, Spooner understands logistics — but she also knows what it’s like to be a vendor. For 14 years, she and her husband dealt in antiques and upcycled furniture. They were known for their distinctive bird feeders made from vintage luncheon plates and bottles. In addition to her vendor experience, Spooner is a discerning shopper herself.
“I shop for vendors. I go to events to find them,” Spooner says. “With several adult children and eight grandchildren, I have lots of gifts to buy. I look for those offering high-quality items that are unique and well made. I’m thrilled when I find a vendor that gives back to charities. There is an application process, and sellers must be approved. I’d never bring in anyone I wouldn’t buy from.”
This year’s Holiday Extravaganza Market offers plenty of parking and will take place in the Llama Barn and the Exhibition Center. Among the more than 120 vendors are those selling children’s clothes and toys, jewelry, boutique clothing, cigar and bourbon accessories, wooden pieces, kitchenware, stationery items, food products and seasonal décor. Spooner notes that it’s easy to find the perfect gift for someone who has everything.
In addition to vetting vendors, Spooner personally tries out the food trucks and confirms they are certified with the Hamilton County Health Department before inviting them to participate. Shoppers can enjoy savory bites, baked goods and sweets. Kids will love hot chocolate and soft drinks, while adults can elevate their shopping experience with coffee, beer and wine. Visitors will also enjoy live music, hourly door prizes and a grand giveaway.
“The vendors make the items they sell with creativity and passion,” Spooner says. “You’re not going to find that in big-box stores where products are made on an assembly line. Our people are producing things that will be loved and will have lasting importance to others down the road.
“We are so grateful for our vendors — who they are and what they do,” she adds. “We appreciate our shoppers who come to support local small businesses. Our goal is to create a memorable, magical experience that shoppers want to come back to.”
