SOMERS POINT — Organizer Will Boyer said he wants there to be something for everyone under the tree during the annual Christmas Mart hosted by The Patriots for Somers Mansion from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6 on the grounds of the historic home.
The event features craft vendors selling holiday-themed goods and a food court with unique offerings. Beth Tinnon and her band will be back playing “strictly Christmas vibes,” Boyer said.
In addition to the vendors and food, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available to pose for free photos. He also will welcome children onto his lap to share their wish lists.
Boyer, following on the heels of the successful Fall Fest, said they put together a children’s area with crafts and games that will be back for the Christmas Mart, giving Santa a place to talk to kids.
Boyer said the Fall Fest drew a lot of new vendors and that many would be back for this event. He said there would be 65 total, including 10 selling hot prepared foods.
“It grows every year,” he said
The event is sponsored by The Patriots for Somers Mansion, whose mission is to raise awareness and funds for restoration of the 1723 building.
Donna Mohr of the Patriots said the event is profitable for the group in many ways. She said the group is thrilled to have lots of people in the mansion, which is a state historic site.
She said there are so many people that they have to limit the number of guests inside.
“The building is 300 years old, so we have to be careful,” she said, adding “it’s a wonderful problem to have.”
Boyer said Mother Nature looks likely to cooperate.
“Looks like 50 degrees and mostly sunny — I will take that,” he said.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff