VISTA, CA — This holiday season, downtown Vista is set to host a truly novel holiday celebration with the third annual Dark X-mas Market, bringing a twist to the usual festive cheer by echoing the rich traditions of mid-European folklore. On Saturday, December 14, from 4:00 to 8:30 pm, S. Citrus Ave. in downtown Vista will transform into a winter wonderland like no other. The Dark X-mas Market, hosted in collaboration with the Backfence Society, Twisted Heart Puppetworks, and the Vista Art Foundation, is inspired by Europe’s age-old Kristkindl Markets and promises an evening of intriguing and festive entertainment.
At the heart of the Dark X-mas Market lies an artisan holiday market showcasing unique and offbeat vendors from across the area. Guests can shop for an array of one-of-a-kind gifts, handmade crafts, and holiday decor that evoke the darker, whimsical side of the winter season. From Krampus-inspired artwork to tarot and rune readings, this market embraces the mystical and invites visitors to experience a distinctly different holiday celebration.
Throughout the evening, attendees can sip on spiced cider while enjoying live street performances, featuring Welsh Morris dancers, belly dancers and an official court jester, Paulo Garbanzo from Richmond, Virginia. For those feeling competitive, a traditional stein-holding contest will test participants’ strength and endurance.
A highlight of the Dark X-mas Market will be the Wild Hunt of Vista and Krampus Run, an electrifying procession featuring cosplayers representing European winter folklore characters. This unique spectacle is perfect for all ages, giving visitors a chance to meet and take photos with characters inspired by age-old tales of the winter season.
As an extra treat, a Christmas tree giveaway will add to the spirit of giving, offering an opportunity to win a fresh evergreen.
What: Dark X-mas Market
When: Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 4:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Where: S. Citrus Ave. (between Main St. and Broadway), Downtown Vista, CA
Join us at Vista’s Dark X-mas Market for an enchanting evening that combines the eerie with the festive, celebrating the mystique and magic of winter through a modern lens of European folklore. This is one holiday market you won’t want to miss!
For more information, please contact artinvista@gmail.com or visit our website at www.artinvista.com and www.thewildhuntofvista.com.
