Despite rainy weather in the morning, Saturday will be a good day to check some gifts off holiday wish lists with the Downtown Meridian Christmas Bazaar going on at the MSU Riley Center.
“It will be a great family friendly event where people can make one stop to shop and get some gifts for Christmas,” said Matt Schanrock, director of Meridian Main Street. “We will have 35 vendors, live music, Santa and drinks from Weidmann’s.”
The Christmas Bazaar will be held from 10 a.m until 3 p.m. at the MSU Riley Center, located at 2200 Fifth Street in downtown Meridian. Admission to the event is free.
The holiday event is produced by Downtown Meridian, which is powered by the Main Street program.
From all kinds of artwork to clothing and jewelry to unique gifts to lots of baked goods, there will be an assortment of offerings at the bazaar, including some favorites who participate in Earth’s Bounty.
Patrons will be able to browse multiple vendors, visit with Santa, enjoy live music and partake in a favorite morning cocktail, while hot cocoa will be available for the younger shoppers.
“We encourage everyone to come downtown Saturday morning and get their shopping done before the Christmas parade in the afternoon. They can bring their little ones and snag a picture with Santa while they are there,” Schanrock said.
It also is a great way for families to pair the event with First Saturday at the Mississippi Arts + Entertainment Experience, which will be offering “Hot Cocoa in Whoville.” The MAX will come alive with the beloved Grinch characters, courtesy of Meridian Community College’s Arts & Letters Stage 2 troupe, for a special holiday event, beginning at 10 a.m. Participants will get the chance to capture the moment with a holiday photo, write a message at the Letters to Santa station and indulge in a warm drink at the hot cocoa bar. All activities are included in First Saturday’s discounted admission of $5 for adults and $1 for ages 6-17. Children ages 5 and under are admitted free.