On December 10th and 11th, small farmers and artisans displayed their wares at Burlington Station in Two Harbors. Booths were displayed both outdoors under a large tent and indoors in a side room of Burlington Station.
Live music on both days lent a festive air. Saturday’s musicians were Bo Allen, the Two Harbors Ukulele Group (T.H.U.G.), and Steve Soleka. Sunday’s musicians were Todd Eckhert, guitarist Russell Sackett, Jase Owen, and violinist Austin Engelhardt.
Bianca Seay’s booth for Little Chili Farm, stocked with garlic braids, vanilla extract, elderberry syrup, cajeta (a goats’ milk caramel sauce), herbal healing salve, and more greeted people coming into the outdoor tent.
Vendor Julie Bugner of Two Harbors Baker said, “I thought the holiday market was great! There [were] great musicians throughout the entire market and we had such fun seeing everyone we haven’t seen since the fall. The first day of the holiday [market] was busy and fun, that atmosphere was upbeat and everyone had smiles on their faces. It’s so much fun to see everyone socializing and enjoying each other’s company while supporting all of us local and small businesses. I feel very blessed to live in a community with such great people.”
Don Olson of Potter’s Farm of Fredenberg said, “This was our first time at the Market and we enjoyed not only meeting and visiting with those who came, but establishing new relationships with other vendors. I laughed as two of the vendors broke out in song along with the carols being played on the violin. The warm fires outside, the beautiful snowfall, and the crispness of the air led to such a festive event. The Burlington Station folks provided a great atmosphere for this holiday market and the model train circling around overhead was great fun!”
Violinist Austin Engelhardt has played at the Two Harbors Farmers’ Market before, and he says, “I enjoy it every time.” Engelhardt learned about the farmers’ market from Bianca Seay. He said, “My favorite part about the market is sharing the art of music and engaging with the people. It’s so special to me when I can play someone’s favorite song or play ‘Happy Birthday’ for someone to make their day a little more special. It’s a joy!”
Bianca Seay, coordinator for the Two Harbors Farmers’ Market said, “The 2022 Handcrafted Market was a success! We are so grateful to our community for showing up to support our local farmers, artisans, makers, and bakers!”
Next year’s Handcrafted Market will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023. Interested vendors may submit their inquiry to bianca.e.seay@gmail.com.
While you’re waiting for the next Handcrafted Market, look ahead to May 27, 2023, when the Two Harbors Farmers’ Market starts their summer season!
