The Grand Central District is bringing the holiday magic this year with its first-ever European-style Christmas market, debuting on December 6 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Spanning the 2300 block between 23rd St. S. and 24th St. S., the district will transform into an enchanting holiday village, closing off two streets to host this highly anticipated event.
This idea has been brewing in the district for years, gaining momentum after the massive success of Halloween on Central. According to district coordinator Danielle Sheffey, “We don’t get snow here, so it’s easy to overlook those festive celebrations that colder regions embrace to bring communities together during the holiday season.” The event will feature 11 businesses and over 60 vendors, each showcasing unique themes and interactive setups.
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Themed parties and interactive activities
Every participating establishment will bring its own festive flair, offering a variety of holiday-themed experiences. For example, Grand Central Brewhouse will host an ugly sweater party, complete with a ski lodge setup on its upper balcony and exclusive new beer releases.
Other district favorites like Dog Bar, Cocktail, Par Bar, and Right Around the Corner are joining the festivities with unique themes, entertainment, and activities, encouraging visitors to explore and enjoy the district’s diverse vibes.
A festive evening in the ‘Burg
The Grand Central District Christmas Market promises a magical evening packed with:
- Live music
- Holiday lights and decorations
- Food trucks
- Sweets and treats
- Raffles, games, and workshops
- Santa Paws at the 21+ Dog Bar
- An ugly sweater party
- Real snow for a touch of winter magic
With the success of Halloween on Central as a precedent, this Christmas market is set to become a cherished annual tradition for the St. Pete community.
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