The holiday shopping season is here, and whether you are seeking a unique gift for yourself or someone special, you are certain to find it at the Charity League of Atlantic County’s 78th Annual Christmas Mart. This year, the event is moving to its new home at the Linwood Country Club and will be held for one day only on Friday, Nov. 21. While there are several changes, attendees will enjoy the same incredible atmosphere and a sense of community that has welcomed countless shoppers for decades.
The annual Christmas Mart has become a long-running South Jersey tradition, spanning generations. The Mart features a wide array of handcrafted items, from carefully made decorations and ornaments to table runners and tree skirts. The event also includes a variety of gourmet baked goods, cakes, pies, and mouthwatering spritz cookies made by a secret recipe.
Preparations are currently underway to make this year’s event a success, with active members working diligently on Christmas ornaments, pins, table runners, and other eclectic items to be sold. Guests can even enjoy photos with Santa along with phenomenal raffle items. “All of the activities that are normally spread out for two days are going to be jam-packed into one day full of fun,” commented Mary Alice Vesper, Mart Chairperson.
Since its inception, the Christmas Mart has become famous for selling limited-edition pins, each one designed and crafted with the utmost care. Up to 6,000 pins are made annually, and each one takes approximately two hours to complete by hand. Over the years, these uniquely designed pins have become keepsakes among regular attendees, with much anticipation surrounding what the design will look like. “It is kept a secret until that very day,” Vesper explained.
In addition, over 20 vendors are scheduled to attend this year’s event, including 7311 Bakery, Apple Creations A.S.O.M. Studio, Bella U, Coastal Farmhouse, Mud Girls, Talk of the Walk, and Wayward Gardens, among others.
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 of 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 40 active and associate members, with active members volunteering over 200 hours per year.
Vesper gives credit to Linwood Country Club for their incredible hospitality. “I feel like the Dougherty family opened their hearts and were so gracious. They made it super, super easy.”
The 78th Annual Christmas Mart will be held Friday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. at Linwood Country Club, 500 Shore Rd. Free valet parking will be available. More information is available at www.charityleague-ac.com by following The Charity League of Atlantic County on Facebook.
Additionally, the Linwood Country Club will be open to the public for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made online via Resy or by calling 609-927-6134.
Photo by Steffen Klenk
