By Tess Mitchell

Wausau Makers Market Co. will host a holiday shopping event featuring local artisans from 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15 at the Wausau Elks Lodge, 414 Scott St., Wausau.

The pop-up style market is the fourth of its kind, providing a curated retail experience that sets it apart from a typical craft show. Complete with handmade items from Midwest artisans, local eats, live music, and signature cocktails, the Holiday Makers Market is sure to put consumers in the holiday spirit.

Perfect for the last minute shopper, the Holiday Makers Market acts as a one-stop shop for all of your gift-giving needs. Peruse through unique, quality items for the whole family (including yourself!) with the opportunity to meet the maker and spend local.

With more than 6,000 people interested in the event, according to the group’s Facebook event page, the market is projected to have the highest attendance since the Wausau Makers Market Co.’s founding in August of 2017.

That means co-founders Alex Eichten and Allyson Leahy are gearing up for their biggest event yet. Entrepreneurs by nature, Eichten and Leahy recognized a need for an artistic venue for regional makers to share their craft with their community. Thus, the Makers Market was created to bring light to smaller businesses while providing them a platform to flourish.

“I think we have been very fortunate,” Eichten said. “The pop-up model has given us the opportunity to partner with other businesses, making each market unique unto itself. The change in venue draws in a different crowd every time, and in turn the markets continue to grow.”

To spread even more holiday cheer, The Wausau Makers Market Co. has partnered with the Elks’ Good Fellowship Christmas Program to help carry on a tradition that has bettered the Wausau community for decades.

“Since World War II, the Good Fellowship Christmas Program has sent volunteer Santas out into the Wausau community to give clothing and holiday dinner supplies to children and families in need. Each year, this program helps provide clothing to 100 children and feed about 30 families. With your help, we’re hoping to assist many more,” according to a statement from the Wausau Makers Market Co.

While entry to the market is free, attendees will have the chance to make an optional donation toward the charitable cause.