By Jordan Meadows
Staff Writer
Holiday shoppers across Wake County had no shortage of festive options over the weekend as two major vendor markets brought together local businesses and unique gifts for the holidays.
The weekend kicked off Friday in Cary with the Cary Vintage Holiday Market, which marked the final vintage market of theirs for the year. Hosted by Vicious Fishes Brewery, South Line Brewing Company, and Hummingbird Collective in the West End Biergarten, the family—and dog-friendly—event invited community members to browse an eclectic mix of women’s and men’s vintage clothing, vintage shoes and accessories, records and cassettes, and a variety of housewares and trinkets.
Beyond shopping, attendees enjoyed specialty baked goods from Sprinkled With Love Cakery, permanent jewelry from Perm’D, live music, food trucks, and specialty winter drinks, including hot cocoa and slushies. Guests gathered around fire pits, sipped seasonal drinks, and soaked in the festive atmosphere as the market wrapped up its year-long run with a celebratory sendoff.
The holiday market momentum continued Sunday, December 14, 2025, with the 18th Annual Black Vendor Market Holiday Extravaganza and Toys for Tots Giveaway, held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Raleigh Midtown.
I come to these markets every year because you can feel the energy and excitement,” said longtime shopper Maya Johnson.
The event featured a wide range of vendors showcasing food, fashion, beauty services, and professional offerings, while also encouraging attendees to give back by donating new, unwrapped toys. Shoppers explored booths from businesses such as Ms. Martha’s Meals, Christian Styles Studios, and Mama Tee’s Sweet Treats.
Business information and assistance were available at booths with NC Notary and Tax Planning Strategists. Beauty and artistic works, too, were present, along with women's fragrances, Sparkling Tips Studio Nail Company, beauty consultants, and many more.
Event organizer and salon owner Melody Council emphasized the importance of creating a supportive space for Black-owned businesses, saying, “We are bringing all Black-owned businesses together under one roof so they can showcase their businesses and sell their services and products. It just grew out of my salon, and just kept growing and growing.”
In addition to organizing the event, Council gave away free toys and ensured vendors had a well-lit, clean, and dry space to operate. The spirit of the event extends beyond Wake County, with a similarly themed Black Farmers Market holiday pop-up scheduled to take place in Durham on December 18, continuing the season of shopping, celebration, and community support.
