The City of Waterbury is proud to be part of a statewide showcase of artists and artisans the weekend of Black Friday – November 29th and 30th.
Just in time for the holiday season, this is an incredible opportunity to shop in a boutique setting for some of the finest jewelry, clothing, soaps, food products, home accessories, art work, kitchenware and decorative gifts that you can find in the state of Connecticut. The dynamic event will provide a one-of-a-kind shopping experience while highlighting our state’s diverse group of artists and artisans, and showcasing the magnificent Waterbury City Hall.
The weekend-long affair kicks off with the special Black Friday Preview Party (Shopper’s Night Out) on Friday, Nov. 29, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The opening evening of the event will be a holiday stunner with a light projection show on the building, live music, signature cocktails, food, vendor demonstrations and promotions. Tickets to this event are $25 and can be purchased through the Palace Theater, 100 East Main St., Waterbury; telephone: 203-346-2000.
The Open Market Day will take place Saturday, Nov. 30, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at Waterbury City Hall and its adjacent historic building at 193 Grand St. This event is completely free and open to the public. Over 50 local vendors will showcase their products, providing visitors with the opportunity to purchase work from the most talented artists in Connecticut. An assortment of seasonal tastings with refreshments will be offered, and top Connecticut food trucks will be onsite for the public's enjoyment.
The inaugural event of State of Makers is a first of its kind sponsored by CreateHereNow - an initiative of the State of Connecticut Office of the Arts, Department of Economic and Community Development and the City of Waterbury. State of Makers is a statewide marketing project to raise awareness of artisans and the maker's talents that exist throughout the state. This campaign will create a network of Connecticut makers, offering resources for promotion, exhibition, and commerce. Connecticut is the first to receive an ArtPlace Grant for an entire state. For more information, please visit www.waterburyct.org/holidaymarket.