A favorite holiday tradition returns to Lincoln’s Haymarket this weekend.
Wax Buffalo’s outdoor, German-inspired “Winter Market on O Street” will flood the streets on Sunday, December 7, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. under the viaduct at 727 “O” Street. Attendees will enjoy over 150 local makers, boutiques, and food vendors, in what organizers liken to a “Hallmark movie” in downtown.
“People come down, set up tiny stores throughout the streets. We’ll have amazing local food, five different bars where you can cozy up with a glass of wine or a holiday cocktail, an activity zone for the kids, there’s just so many ways to linger and have a fun at the festival,” Alicia Reisinger, event organizer and owner of Wax Buffalo, told KLIN News.
Admission is $15, with kids 5 and under free. Families can also purchase a stocking for children to fill with candy and toys from vendors.
Reisinger said the Winter Market also serves as a major boost for Lincoln’s small businesses, especially after many saw reduced traffic during last weekend’s blizzard which fell on Small Business Saturday.
“You can literally get all of your Christmas shopping done in one day,” she said. “It’s a chance to vote with your dollars, support local makers, and discover shops and creators you might never have known existed.”
Vendors range from candle makers and coffee roasters to bakeries, woodworkers, leather goods, photographers, boutiques and more—including Rose Cat Coffee Company, Canyon Joe’s Barbecue, The Chocolate Season, Artemis Tea & Botanical, Ruby June, and dozens of Nebraska artisans.
“Embrace the magic,” Reisinger said. “Bundle up, pretend you’re walking through a German Christmas festival, and I swear it will become your family tradition every December.”
Tickets are available at waxbuffalo.com or at the gate on Sunday.