It seems that the older I get, the more I enjoy this time of year. My kids are getting to the ages where decorating and celebrating and anticipating are really fun. For me, the build up to a specific holiday is often more exciting than the holiday itself. I love making the costumes and painting the pumpkins, decking the halls and searching for the perfect gifts. But I suppose that’s how I’ve pretty much always been. The best part of prom was always getting ready.
Since returning to Kansas City, the Junior League‘s Holiday Mart has felt like the kick off to the Christmas season. This 4 day, regional shopping experience that draws about 20,000 people to Bartle Hall every year is like nothing I’ve ever been to before. I recall the first time I attended – as part of my job I went to the opening luncheon and had a bit of time to peruse the aisles before I had to get to my next meeting. A bit of time was certainly not enough. With over 220 local and national retailers, Holiday Mart is sure to have something for everyone.
From beautiful home decor (Nell Hill’s is always there) to one-of-a-kind giftables and accessories, clothing to specialty foods – there is something different around every corner. Along with all of that great shopping in one location (think of the gas money you’ll save!), the event is 100% volunteer based, and approximately $0.85 cents of every dollar raised through Holiday Mart goes back to community programs and projects. I don’t know about you, but shopping is so much more justifiable when helping others is apart of it.
Junior League has been kind enough to give me 2 weekender passes to giveaway today. For those of you who are in Kansas City or live close enough to make the trip, you can leave a comment below telling me when you usually start your holiday shopping. For additional chances to win, you can “like” The Makerista on Facebook, follow me on Pinterest and/or Instagram. You must leave a separate comment for each additional entry. The winner will be chosen and contacted Saturday morning, October 12.
If you don’t want to wait to see if you’ve won, or would prefer to shop on Thursday or Friday you can purchase tickets here and pick them up at will call. I know some women who kick off their Christmas shopping every year with the preferential tickets, enjoying the included continental breakfast before they stroll the aisles and check people off their lists.
I’ll be back tomorrow with some snapshots of September. Have a lovely day!
Lisa says
Hi Gwen! I went to Holiday Mart last year and could have gotten lost there for hours 🙂 I usually start my Christmas shopping in November, but this year I'm happy to say that I've already bought a couple of stocking stuffers. Whether I win or not, I'll definitely be going to Holiday Mart again this year!
p.s. I love that we have such a great blog like yours right here in Kansas City!
molly says
I usually start around Thanksgiving, but this year I've already got a few things. We've got two family birthdays in December & I just am trying to mend my last minute ways.
Love your blog –
Kristen Fine says
I follow you on Insta
Kristen Fine says
I follow you on Pinterest
Kristen Fine says
I like you on FB! Love the blog:)
cassie woodward says
Usually I start with all of the crazies on Black Friday, but this year with new family additions I'm ahead of the game already! Go me! Ha!
Alison says
Every year I say that I will get all of my shopping done in October, which usually translates to Dec. 22! One of these years, it will be done early. Never been to the holiday mart!
Ali says
I start as soon as I start seeing good deals!!
Sarah says
I usually start looking mid-October for deals on things I know I want to buy, but with a new baby in the house this year I haven't had a chance to think that far ahead yet…I need to get on it! I haven't been to Holiday Mart in a few years and would love to go back!
Sarah says
Following on instagram!
Denise @ Do you have that in my size??? says
As a member of the Junior League (of San Diego), I can attest to the great work that organization does. To be able to shop for fun things for yourself, finish your holiday shopping, AND benefit your community sounds like a perfect way to spend a day!
Brandt968 says
I learned from my mom years ago to shop starting the day after Christmas. I buy gifts throughout the year so it is easier on my wallet and less stressful when the Christmas season begins.
Samantha Kuykendall says
I usually start closer to Thanksgiving. This year, with a new baby coming and toy requests that may sell out, I have already started. Definitely my favorite time of the year!!
Diana Smith says
I start early–sometimes even picking up good deals during the after Christmas sales! I buy gifts throughout the year when I see something I think someone would enjoy.
Diana
Angie Jackson says
I usually start at the Junior League of Kansas City's HOLIDAY MART! Would Love to win and take my friend, but we'll be there even if we don't win.
Emily Morris says
I usually pick up a few things before Thanksgiving and save the rest to cram in the last weeks before Christmas! Nothing like last minute deals!
Autumn Beach says
I love Holiday Mart, but I haven't been in YEARS. Definitely not since my kids have been born. Free tickets sure would be a fun excuse to get back into the swing of things. 🙂 When do I start my Christmas shopping? Ugh. Not ever as early as I would like. But the good news is that I'm getting better the older I get. Maybe this will be the year when I'm done by December. Maybe? Thanks for the chance to win!
Allison Roth says
I typically start shopping in late October. Since starting back to work full time, I am lucky to get it done. I have started enjoying the holidays so much more know that I don't have as much time to focus on the gift part of the holiday!
Pam Wooldridge says
I start later than most. But our family gift list is pretty small. I make gifts most years too. I do have 3 gifts already! Hot dog!
Pam Wooldridge says
Liked you on Facebook. 🙂
Pam Wooldridge says
Following you on Pinterest! 🙂
Pam Wooldridge says
And "happymom80" is following you on Instagram too! 🙂 That's me! 🙂
Kathryn Dickmann says
You know me and my procrastination scout 😉 Maybe this will get me to start early! Been following you since day one not only on social medias, but in life too. 🙂
Jennie doran says
I usually wait till after thanksgiving but I've already started!!! Hoping to win the tickets to do even more Christmas shopping!