When Tidal Brewing Company and Roots Creative Co. present the 3rd Annual Christkindlmarket December 13 from 11 AM to 4 PM, they will be providing a celebratory forum for local makers and artists at the brewery, celebrating the holiday season with the presentation and sale of art and handmade items, treats, raffles, and Tidal’s signature craft beer. They also will be upholding a Yuletide tradition that spans through the centuries.
“The Christkind, a fairy-like being dressed in gold and white robes with a crown upon her golden locks, is the namesake of the Christkindlmarket,” reports Christkindl Market, https://www.christkindlmarket.com/the-christkind/. “Christkind folklore dates back to the 1500s and stems from traditional customs: parades during the holiday season were guided by one “grand” angel, the Christkind. Since then, and still today, she is the bearer of gifts to most children in German-speaking countries, much like Santa Claus is in the United States. Traditionally, gifts are exchanged December 24th and delivered by the Christkind, who leaves them under the Christmas tree and disappears before the children can catch a glimpse of her.”
This rich tradition, in fact, goes as far back as the 16th century.
“The Christkindlmarket unites cherished German and European tradition with international flair and local charm,” reports Christkindl Market, https://www.christkindlmarket.com/history-tradition/. “Inspired by the 16th-century Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, one of the first outdoor markets of its kind, the Christkindlmarket is well-known for its vendors’ high-quality gifts and food, holiday cheer, and for being the ideal place for families to make unique memories.”
Dave Peitzman, who along with his wife Maxine co-owns Tidal Brewing Company, vows to continue this tradition in grand style, with a localized version of the Christkindlmarket.
“Well, the inspiration came from European markets specifically around Christmas. We have been working with Roots Creative since opening and both of our companies’ philosophies revolve around supporting local and community,” said Dave Peitzman. “This market gives our growing area an opportunity to showcase all of the local talent and businesses we have that people may have not been exposed to along with the ability to network. Breweries in the Tampa Bay area have been doing markets for years now and we’re lucky that this will be our 3rd. We have all sorts of vendors from crafts, art, and food.”
Allisa Babor, Founder of Roots Creative Co., promises a magical evening of art and refreshment at Christkindlmarket.
“This is the third year we are doing our annual Christkindlmarket at the brewery. Roots Creative Co. and Tidal Brewing Company team up each year for this holiday event full of fun!” said Babor. “We curate a small market of local artists and makers selling art, unique & handmade items, and delicious handcrafted treats. Vendors will be set up outside showing off their amazing crafts and jamming to holiday music. And don’t forget… some incredible craft beer from Tidal for all to enjoy!”
Also this year, a raffle featuring items from market vendors will raise money for Operation HeartF.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies).
“Operation HeartF.E.L.T. is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide nutritious meals to students and their siblings on weekends, holidays, and extended school break periods,” said Babor. “We are proud to raise funds for such a great cause for the second year in a row.”
This year’s Christkindlmarket will be conducted with full safety measures in place.
“This market will look a bit different than last year (just like the rest of 2020)!” said Babor. “We will be practicing social distancing and safety protocol for the safety and enjoyment of everyone at the market. We will have hand sanitizer stations available at every booth.”
Featured art will include wine paintings from Gary Duquette, crystal jewelry from Crystal & Canvas, digital art and watercolors from Joel Hernandez, resin decor and jewelry from Ellynne Babor, handmade mustards, and treats from Elsa’s Special Treats, handblown barware from senOiH, and more.
For more about Christkindlmarket, visit their Facebook event which appears on Tidal Brewing’s Facebook page or direct link: https://fb.me/e/4z3xhEnJ0.
“We look forward to spending this day safely outside with the community,” said Babor, “celebrating the holiday cheer.”
