Shop by the beach at Harborside Lights & Holiday Market
By LOIS KINDLE
Jennifer McCafferty is bringing a holiday market to South Shore unlike any residents have ever seen before.
It’s outdoors “among the lights, boats and beach at beautiful Bahia Beach on Tampa Bay at Little Harbor Resort,” she said. The festive event will take place from 4 to 9 p.m. Dec. 17, and admission is free.
More than 50 vendors will be on hand, including Stamper Cheese, Matalu Fish Art, Rickels Lamps and Paua Creations (abalone shell jewelry). The market will feature everything from candied apples, chocolate-covered pretzels, flavored popcorns, hot chocolate and beef jerky to children’s books, fused-glass plates, sun catchers, candle holders and wine mixes. Adult visitors are invited to enjoy a sample of the warm winter wine mix at the Shell Point Spice tent.
Coastal décor, essential oils and natural soaps, resort-style apparel, blown glass and holiday wreaths, decorations and ornaments will also be sold.
Farmer Pete will have poinsettias, decorated mini-trees and farm-fresh produce.
Singer Michael Jayne will perform a variety of popular music at the event, and thanks to Alvarez Plumbing, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by boat at 5 p.m. to meet with children in a workshop built by Lennar.
“Be sure to bring your cameras,” McCafferty advised parents. “There will be lots of photo opportunities with Santa until 7 p.m., when he has to leave for another engagement.”
McCafferty said there also will be a special drawing for a children’s summer fishing camp certificate valued at $595 from Capt. Joel Brandenburg and his Ana Banana Fishing Co. Free tickets for the drawing will be given to parents registering their children at the Jen’s Market tent.
Event sponsors include Harborside Suites, Lennar, South County Landcare, Ana Banana Fishing Co., Alvarez Plumbing, The Marinas at Little Harbor and Jen’s Markets.
“Come enjoy the lighted boats in the marina, take a stroll along the beach at sunset and enjoy some holiday shopping in a resort atmosphere,” McCafferty said. “And everyone can also enjoy a casual meal and drinks at Sunset Grill or Hooks while they’re here.”
Little Harbor Resort is at 536 Bahia Bay Blvd., Ruskin. From the Ruskin exit (240-B) on I-75, drive 2.8 miles west on S.R. 674. Turn right at the light at U.S. 41 and head north for about a half mile to Shell Point Road. Turn left at the light at Shell Point Road and drive west 2.5 miles, where there will be signage for Little Harbor. Turn right.
For additional information, visit jens-market.com.
