When we first started planning our Pre-Holiday Makers Market, we had the holidays in mind. A chance to get a head start on shopping, discover local artists and makers, and find a few thoughtful gifts before the season gets away from us. But from the beginning, it was really about something more. Bringing people together. There's something about gathering on a farm that changes the pace of an afternoon. You slow down a little. You have conversations you might not have otherwise. You meet the person who made the candle you're bringing home, run into a friend you haven't seen in months, or watch your kids become completely fascinated by a chicken or an alpaca. It's simple, and that's exactly what we love about it.
Last year, Balto Farm proved to be the perfect setting for this kind of gathering. With its open fields, farm animals, beautiful views and welcoming atmosphere, it gave us the opportunity to create something that felt a little different from a traditional holiday market. And after seeing so many people come out to support our local makers and spend the afternoon together, we knew we wanted to bring it back.
On Sunday, November 8, from 12–4 PM, Locally Boulder and Balto Farm will host our 2nd Annual Pre-Holiday Makers Market, bringing together more than 20 local makers, artists and creatives for an afternoon of shopping, food, drinks and time on the farm.
For Jen, who has been opening up Balto Farm to the community through markets and gatherings for years, these events are about sharing a place she loves. And that's something we feel incredibly fortunate to be part of. Working farms are such an important part of Boulder County's character, and having the opportunity to experience one in this way makes the afternoon that much more meaningful.
This year, we're bringing back the things we loved most while adding a few new reasons to stay awhile. Browse handmade jewelry, candles, gifts and other locally made goods. Grab a coffee, warm cider or cocoa, enjoy baked goods from Emory Janes Coffee Co., make s'mores and spend some time visiting the farm animals. Masha of Paper Crane Photography will also be back offering holiday mini photo sessions, giving families an opportunity to capture a few photos before enjoying the rest of the afternoon. But what we're most looking forward to isn't necessarily what's on the vendor tables. It's the conversations, the connections and seeing our community come together to support the people who create and grow things right here in Boulder County.
We know how quickly the holiday season fills up. Calendars get busy, shopping lists get longer and sometimes we forget to enjoy the little things that make this time of year so special. Our hope is that this market gives everyone a reason to slow down for a few hours. Come with your family, meet up with friends or simply carve out a little time for yourself. Shop something handmade, meet a new local maker, grab something warm to drink and enjoy an afternoon outside.
A little holiday shopping. A little time on the farm. And a reminder that some of the most meaningful parts of the season have nothing to do with what's under the tree.
We can't wait to welcome you back to Balto Farm.
November 8 | 12–4 PM | Balto Farm
7957 Arapahoe Rd.