Holiday spirit has swept across the nation, and for two beloved markets in the Midwest and on the East Coast, the season means more than just twinkling lights and festive décor—it’s about tradition, community, and a bustling showcase of local creativity. This past weekend, Root’s Country Market & Auction in East Hempfield Township, Pennsylvania, and Farmgirl Flea’s Holiday Market at Countryside Greenhouse in Allendale Township, Michigan, both welcomed crowds eager to kick off the Christmas season with food, fun, and a treasure trove of unique finds.
For Root’s Country Market & Auction, this year’s annual Christmas Show carried extra meaning. According to LNP, the East Hempfield Township institution celebrated its centennial in 2025, marking 100 years of serving the community. On Saturday, November 22, Root’s hosted its much-anticipated holiday event, a free gathering that drew families, collectors, and holiday shoppers alike. The sprawling market was transformed into a winter wonderland, with more than 200 vendors offering everything from handmade ornaments and vintage trinkets to festive home décor and seasonal treats.
Scenes from the event, captured by LNP correspondent Connor Hollinger, showcased aisles brimming with colorful wreaths, twinkling lights, and the cheerful buzz of neighbors catching up over steaming cups of cider. Santa Claus made his annual appearance, delighting children with stories and smiles, while the air was thick with the scent of cinnamon, pine, and freshly baked goods. The flea market’s storied Old Mill section was especially lively, as vendors displayed antique treasures and shoppers searched for that perfect, one-of-a-kind gift.
“It’s a tradition for us,” one longtime attendee was overheard saying to a friend, echoing the sentiment of many who have made Root’s Christmas Show a yearly ritual. The market’s enduring popularity is a testament to its unique blend of old-fashioned charm and contemporary flair—a place where memories are made and new traditions are born. And with the milestone 100th anniversary as a backdrop, this year’s festivities felt particularly poignant.
Meanwhile, several states west, the Farmgirl Flea Holiday Market brought its own brand of holiday magic to Allendale Township, Michigan, at the Countryside Greenhouse. As reported by WOOD TV8, the event spanned two days—November 28 and 29, 2025—and featured an impressive roster of around 250 vendors. Artisans and vintage dealers from across the region set up shop, offering a dizzying variety of goods: upcycled furniture, hand-poured candles, knitted scarves, rustic holiday signs, and more.
Jessica Plaisier, event coordinator for Farmgirl Flea, expressed her enthusiasm for the market’s role in the community. “It’s a big market, so we love hosting it,” she told WOOD TV8, emphasizing the importance of supporting local makers and small businesses. “You can find something for anyone in your family. It’s a good day to shop with the local vendors and support local.”
The event was designed to be as inclusive and festive as possible. Shoppers could browse to the sounds of holiday music, grab a bite from one of several food trucks, and enjoy special appearances from both Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus—a rare treat for the little ones. The market offered general admission tickets starting at $7, with shopping hours from noon to 5 p.m. on November 28 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on November 29. For the truly dedicated, early access tickets at $15 allowed for two extra hours of browsing before the crowds arrived on opening day.
Farmgirl Flea’s Holiday Market has become a staple of the West Michigan holiday calendar, drawing not just locals but visitors from neighboring towns and even other states. The event’s focus on artisan and vintage goods set it apart from the typical holiday shopping experience, giving guests the opportunity to discover gifts with heart and history. As Plaisier noted, the market’s appeal lies in its diversity—there’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re searching for a quirky stocking stuffer or a show-stopping piece of holiday décor.
Both markets, while separated by hundreds of miles, share a common thread: a commitment to community, tradition, and the celebration of local talent. At Root’s, the centennial year added a layer of nostalgia and pride, reminding attendees of the market’s deep roots in Lancaster County. The Christmas Show, with its blend of old and new, served as a living testament to the enduring power of local gatherings—places where generations come together, stories are shared, and holiday spirits are lifted.
Farmgirl Flea, on the other hand, represents the newer wave of holiday markets that have sprung up across the country in recent years, fueled by a renewed interest in handmade goods and sustainable shopping. The market’s partnership with Countryside Greenhouse provided the perfect backdrop for a festive, family-friendly event, complete with twinkling lights, live music, and a sense of discovery around every corner.
For small business owners and artisans, these markets are more than just sales opportunities—they’re lifelines. The chance to connect with customers face-to-face, share the stories behind their creations, and be part of a larger community event is invaluable, especially during the crucial holiday season. As Plaisier put it, “It’s a good day to shop with the local vendors and support local.” That sentiment resonated at both Root’s and Farmgirl Flea, where shoppers were encouraged to think beyond big-box retailers and consider the impact of their purchases.
Of course, no holiday market would be complete without a visit from Santa Claus. At both events, the jolly old elf was on hand to greet children, pose for photos, and listen to wish lists. At Farmgirl Flea, Mrs. Claus joined in the fun, adding an extra dash of cheer to the proceedings. For many families, these moments are the highlight of the season—a chance to slow down, soak in the magic, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
As the holiday season continues, markets like Root’s and Farmgirl Flea offer a welcome reminder of the simple joys that come from gathering together, supporting local businesses, and celebrating the spirit of giving. Whether you’re searching for a handmade ornament, a vintage treasure, or just a little holiday cheer, these markets deliver in spades. And in a year marked by milestones and new traditions alike, that’s something worth celebrating.
