– Holiday Fun for Kids: Downtown Holiday Kid’s Market Teaches Budgeting and Gift-Giving while Supporting Local Businesses –
(Iowa City, IA) – October 25, 2024 – The Iowa City Downtown District is excited to announce the return of the Downtown Holiday Kid’s Market, sponsored by GreenState Credit Union, for its fourth season. Running from November 4 through November 20, the market will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the Holiday Pop-Up Market located in Black Hawk Mini Park.
This unique holiday shopping experience is designed specifically for kids, giving them the chance to pick out meaningful gifts for family and friends with the assistance of Santa’s helpers. The Holiday Kid’s Market blends fun with learning, as children receive hands-on experience with budgeting while embracing the joy of giving. Parents or guardians can provide a shopping list with a set budget and gift ideas for each recipient. With Santa’s helpers guiding them, kids will secretly shop from a selection of locally sourced items from downtown businesses, with prices ranging from $5 to $75. After making their selections, children can wrap their gifts and complete their holiday shopping in one festive trip.
“GreenState is excited to bring this favorite holiday event back for yet another season,” said Tara Wachendorf, President of the GreenState Foundation and Vice President/Public Relations Director. “There is no better way to teach kids about being responsible and managing a budget while allowing them the freedom to select thoughtful gifts for their loved ones. We encourage everyone to book a time slot – it’s a great way to support local businesses as well.”
To ensure an efficient and personalized experience, each kid will have 30 – 45 minutes to shop. Kids are welcome to shop together with their siblings and friends or on their own alongside Santa’s helpers. Advanced reservations are highly recommended, as personal shopping appointments fill up quickly, though limited drop-in slots may be available. To reserve a shopping time, visit www.downtowniowacitymarket.com.
“Ten Thousand Villages loves participating in the Downtown Holiday Kid’s Market! We provide a little something for everyone, from mom and dad to grandparents and teachers. The curated collection of merchandise from downtown boutiques makes it a one-stop shop that kids can enjoy,” said Liz Preciado Genell, the Executive Director of Ten Thousand Villages. “The experience of children independently shopping for loved ones with help from Santa’s elves is empowering for their sense of autonomy, plus it’s super cute and fun. As a parent, I really appreciate all of the holiday programming downtown; it sets the perfect mood for coziness and celebration.”
The Holiday Kid’s Market offers a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn the value of gift-giving and budgeting, while parents get to enjoy the magic of seeing their kids embrace this fun responsibility. Don’t miss the chance for your child to shop local and enjoy the spirit of the season at the Downtown Holiday Kid’s Market, supported by GreenState Credit Union.
Learn about more holiday activities happening downtown and visit www.downtowniowacity.com/events/tis-the-season.
