By Steffen Klenk
The holiday shopping season has arrived, and if you are seeking a unique gift for someone special in your life, you may find it this coming weekend at the annual Christmas Mart at Greate Bay Country Club in Somers Point. Hosted by the Charity League of Atlantic County, the event began in 1947 and is a South Jersey tradition spanning generations.
Those who attend will expect to find a wide array of handcrafted items, from beautifully made decorations to ornaments, to table runners, tree skirts, gourmet baked goods, cakes, pies, and delicious cookies made with a secret recipe.
What makes the annual Christmas Mart unique are the limited-edition pins, each one crafted and designed with the upmost care. Since their introduction in 1948, they have become keepsakes among attendees, selling out every single time. The design of each year’s pin is unveiled the first day of the show.
In addition, over a dozen vendors are set to attend this year’s event, including A.S.O.M. Stained Glass, Bella U, Bowfish Kids, Mallory Eats, Sophie’s Crafts, and Wayward Gardens, among others. The two-day Christmas Mart will also include raffle prizes and a 50/50 drawing. Preparations have been underway to make the event a success, with active members working diligently on Christmas ornaments, pins, table runners, and other eclectic items to be sold.
All proceeds from the Christmas Mart directly benefit organizations in need throughout Atlantic County, including the Atlantic County Day Nursery, Avanzar (formerly known as the Women’s Center), Center for Family Services, Covenant House of Atlantic City, and Donny’s Fund. Over the past year, the Charity League has raised over $130,000 through the sale of its pins, handcrafted items, and special events.
The Charity League of Atlantic County was founded in 1932 by Clara Reeve Endicott as the Junior Committee of the Atlantic City Day Nursery and consisted of local women who donated their time to the nursery. Three years later, the Charity League was incorporated, and volunteer efforts were increased throughout the area. The organization is comprised of 50 active and associate members, with active members volunteering over 200 hours per year.
The 78th Annual Christmas Mart will be held Fri. Nov. 22 from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m., and Sat. Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Greate Bay Country Club, 901 Somers Point-Mays Landing Rd. For additional information, visit www.charityleague-ac.com or follow The Charity League of Atlantic County on Facebook.
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
