Come with us to sample all there is to offer.

The Eugene Holiday Market is open for business! Each winter, the Eugene Saturday Market relocates to the Lane Events Center, where you can peruse local crafts and enjoy food and music in a festive environment. We recently dropped by to sample everything on display.

Our first stop was the various organizations and advocacy groups that were tabling by the entrance. We spoke with a representative from Health Care for All Oregon, a nonprofit that advocates for Universal Healthcare in Oregon. Next, we stopped by the Eugene Weekly’s booth, learning from an employee about the free, independent, alternative newspaper that publishes every Thursday. There were several opportunities to become involved with statewide movements and community organizations.

At the International Food Court, we shared The Mac’s 7 Cheese White Truffle Mac—topped with garlic-honey and barbecue sauce—as our main entree. Rich, creamy, and very delicious. Additionally, we were lucky enough to grab the single remaining Summer Night Dream drink (passionfruit, green apple, and green grape juices with a splash of grenadine) from Afghani Cuisine, along with a Bolani (a stuffed flatbread filled with potatoes and cilantro and topped with green chutney) on the side. The Summer Night Dream had a nice light, citrusy flavor, although we both agreed it could have been more flavorful.

We also had the chance to take in the excellent live music. While we were there, a lively band performed “old-timey” songs on mandolin, fiddle, and guitar. Our favorite song was “Ragtime Annie,” a classic, cheerful, and energetic American fiddle song.

Finally, we finished our visit by exploring the local arts and crafts vendors. There were many unique items. Our favorites were fancy pens made of real wood, handcrafted bronze wire evil eye rings, and clay and stainless steel garden gnomes.

If you’re looking for a good holiday time, this is the place to take your friends and family. The festive decor, live music performances, diverse food and drink options, and community spirit make for the perfect weekend activity. The Eugene Holiday Market will stay open for the next three Saturdays and Sundays (Dec. 6-7, Dec. 13-14, Dec. 20-21) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a special market from Dec. 23-24.

Article by Lily Yao and Zev Wacks