Stop down to Xmas market

SANDUSKY — An old-world holiday tradition debuted on Friday in Sandusky, blending some new-age concepts to help all, especially locals, celebrate the holiday season. For a few more days this month, The Sandusky Christmas Market welcomes visitors to stop down, do business with holiday vendors and enjoy the festive sights at Schade-Mylander Plaza, 108 W. Shoreline Drive, in downtown Sandusky. Organizers encourage people to walk on through at the following times on these days: • 5-9 p.m. on these Fridays: Dec. 6, Dec. 13 • Noon to 8 p.m. on these Saturdays: Dec. 7, Dec. 14 • Noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8 Booths housing small business merchants — about 40 in total offer a variety of goods, ranging from handcrafted gifts, seasonal decor and gourmet treats — surround the circular site's centerpiece attraction, a massive, lit-up Christmas tree. "The event is inspired by a German-European theme similar to the old riverfront markets," according to an event statement. "Typically held in the weeks leading up to Christmas, Christmas markets are outdoor events usually set in a city center that feature a variety of vendors selling holiday-related items, crafts, foods and beverages," the statement read. "Twinkling lights and Christmas decorations enhance the festive atmosphere while sounds of holiday music spread the joy of the season." People can visit sanduskychristmasmarket.com for the latest updates. A full vendor listing is also available at sanduskychristmasmarket.com/vendor-list. Officials representing local entities, including the Greater Sandusky Partnership, worked for the past few months to coordinate this event. "It's a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season while highlighting our vibrant community and bringing foot traffic to our downtown restaurants and retailers," said Alissa Fisher, the partnership's marketing and creative services director. In tribute Fisher thanked many project partners, including the Corso family, for their collaboration in this first-time festival in Sandusky, which hopes to come back next year. "This inaugural Sandusky Christmas Market will be dedicated to honoring the legacy of Jimm Corso, a cherished and dedicated member of his community, and a man that passionately loved Christmas," according to an event statement. Corso, 75, passed away in 2020. Many recall him, a 1963 Sandusky High School graduate, as a dedicated community member who loved his hometown and everything about it. He earned degrees in horticulture and floriculture from Ohio State and returned to Sandusky with his wife, Judy, to work at Cleveland Road Greenhouses, the family business. Around town, Corso was known as "Mr. Tomato." His family established a foundation to carry on his legacy, and this event aims to make more people aware of his contributions. "Please join us in celebrating Jimm, our community and all of the local businesses and artisans who will be participating in the event," the statement read. "We hope this will become a new holiday tradition for all."