After the 2020 & 2021 cancellation of the long-standing indoor Hickman County Arts, Crafts, and Book Fair, many local artisans, makers, and food businesses were at a loss for a venue to sell their goods locally. The extension agent for FCS solicited support from the Fiscal Court and the Chamber of Commerce to host a Holiday Market Days outdoors at the Hickman County Farmers Market. This idea was met with renewed excitement, new and existing vendors, and a great crowd of local shoppers. The outdoor venue utilized during the two Holiday Market Saturdays in November resulted in success. Providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs, makers, and small businesses to thrive in our community is one of the missions of the Hickman County Extension Program especially in the area of community development.

The Holiday Market Days featured over 30 vendors, many responded to healthy sales and were grateful for the opportunity to set up locally. Five vendors reported sales of over $600.00. We estimate that the overall total sales for 2021 topped $8,000. This represents 100% direct sales from artisan to consumer at a two-day event. Many of our vendors also took orders for future sales and a few directed people to their online Etsy stores or other ways to order custom items. Because our mission is to encourage and support the creative economy, vendor fees are free. This allows for lower overhead when compared to other craft fair events. One of our vendors said, “I appreciate the opportunity to sell locally at Holiday Market Days. It has been difficult with all of the canceled events. Thanks for making this venue available for us.”