“He’s on his way! He’s on his way!” I hope you’ve marked your calendars. Thanks to the Tusten Youth Commission, Santa should arrive approximately 8:15 p.m. on the Santa Express this Saturday, December 10 in front of The Union. The spirit will be bright as Santa and his helpers alight from Santa’s great sled and greet children ages one to 91 (there are “children” in all of us). There will be singing of Christmas carols and sparkling lights as Santa, Mrs. Claus, Rudolf, the Snow Queen and many more characters of the season entertain the crowd. Come down and be part of the fun.

Now in its fifth year, the Indie Mart will be located on the second floor of the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance. Some of you may be saying, “What’s an Indie Mart?” It is short for Independent Market, in other words the market of independent artisans, a place to see and purchase their work. The Indie Mart opened last weekend and will continue for the next two weekends, Saturdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 12 noon to 5 p.m. With approximately 14 vendors present, and vendors changing each week, the items vary greatly from weekend to weekend, so it would be wise to stop in both this weekend, December 10 and 11; and next weekend, December 17 and 18. 

There will be handmade, one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing for adults and children, ceramics, and food items as well. Yum! Last year there was honey, tea and handmade chocolate truffles. I can’t wait to see what treats creative cooks will bring to the market this year.

The Indie Mart has so many positive aspects. It is rewarding to know you have shopped locally, have purchased items made by local artisans and found the perfect gift for the special folks on your list, or maybe even yourself. Have fun shopping at the Indie Mart and have fun this holiday season.