Courtesy photo.
THOUSAND OAKS — The 3rd Annual Holidays In The Village, A European Marketplace, that celebrates the warmth and joy of the holiday season, all with a European flair, will take place Saturday, December 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Oaks parking lot (W. Wilbur Rd. and W. Thousand Oaks Blvd.) in Thousand Oaks. Admission and parking are free.
Sixty vendors will offer unique gifts ranging from handcrafted candy and crepe paper flowers to organic seasonings, glass art, ornaments and curated gift baskets.
“Holidays in the Village is where to find that perfect gift for a special family member or friend,” said Matt Midura, event co-chair.
Traditional European fare will include bratwurst prepared by the Thousand Oaks Elks Lodge, soft pretzels, aebleskiver Danish pastries, crepes, Gluhwein (mulled wine), apple cider and hot cocoa.
A Kris Kringle children’s village will feature face-painting, Art Trek specialty crafts, a holiday train, snow machine, adventure course and a Southeast Ventura County YMCA-sponsored teddy bear scavenger hunt.
Entertainment includes carolers, a stilt walker and a juggler. Stage performances will showcase local talent including the Westlake Village Symphony’s Silver Strings, Pacific Festival Ballet, Westlake High School’s Class Act Premier Show Choir, Newbury Park High School Orchestra, TurnStyle Acapella Group, Lutheran Bell Choir, New West Symphony Ensemble and Channel Islands Harmony Singing Group.
“These types of holiday marketplaces have been a tradition for centuries in Europe, dating back to the Middle Ages,” Midura said. “It’s fun to have one right here in the Conejo Valley that also features hometown crafters, artists, food vendors and entertainment.”
The event is hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Westlake Village. Proceeds benefit local nonprofits. For more information, visitwww.HolidaysInTheVillage.org