The Grand Central District will host its second annual Christmas Market block party on Friday, Dec. 5, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Central Avenue’s 2300 and 2400 blocks will shut down to traffic.
Last year’s debut drew more than 60 vendors and 11 participating businesses across two blocks. European-style Christmas markets inspired the event, which came after Halloween on Central proved successful.
Carol singers will perform this year, and characters will make appearances. Santa photos are scheduled, and Rapunzel shows up in holiday attire to entertain visitors.
Foam snow also returns. The artificial snow lets guests experience a winter scene without enduring freezing temperatures.
Local businesses will participate with themed events. Grand Central Brewhouse hosted an ugly sweater party last year. They turned their upper balcony into a ski lodge theme. Dog Bar, Cocktail, Par Bar, and Right Around the Corner also added themed elements.
The market offers live music, mulled wine, themed drinks, sweets, and gifts. Shoppers can browse items from dozens of vendors throughout the evening.