If you’re looking for unique handmade items to give family and friends as Christmas gifts, you can probably find exactly what you’re looking for in downtown Augusta.
The sixth annual 5th Street Marina Holiday Market is being held every Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. until Dec. 18. It opened Oct. 30. The market’s vendors sell a variety of items, including soaps, candles, clothing, and crafts, as well as health and beauty products, according to marina’s owner, Beth Christian.
There’s also a food truck that sells a variety of menu items, such as hamburgers, corn dogs, broccoli cheddar soup, and chicken tenders. Two Dudes and a Boat Kayak Rentals, which is located in the marina, participate in the market as well.
Vendors have included Sweet Pea Soapery, Terry Gore Photography, and Sandra’s Creations, which sells artwork and jewelry.
“It’s a really good variety,” Christian said. “Every week, we have at least 25 vendors.”
She only charges them $20 per week and doesn’t allow corporate vendors to participate. Christian started the market to increase community awareness of her business.
“If I had a dollar for every time people have said, ‘I didn’t know this marina was here,’ I wouldn’t have to work,” she said. “We just want to let people know we’re here.”
Christian said weekly attendance has been steady, but it varies depending on the weather.
“If the sun’s out, the people are out for sure,” she said.
Christian said the opening of the 5th Street pedestrian bridge has also helped to increase business at not only the market but also the marina.
“We’ve seen an increase in our sales; I know it’s helping everyone else, too,” she said.
So far, the only problem has been limited parking, but they have a golf cart that transports people to and from the market. Christian also hosts a spring market in March, April, and May.
She loves visiting the wide variety of vendors and has finished some of her Christmas shopping at the market.
“It’s really eclectic; It’s all sorts of things,” Christian said.
For more information or to sign up as a vendor, call the 5th Street Marina at 706-869-5404.
