July 23, 2020 – CultureMap Dallas – Lindsey Wilson
The Chi Omega Christmas Market is known as the unofficial start of holiday shopping season in Dallas, with more than 300 merchants and small businesses offering artisan goodies and gifts and the entrance fees benefiting local nonprofits. That’s not changing this year, but what is is its format: The beloved holiday tradition is going virtual.
The 12 Days of Chi Omega Christmas Virtual Market will take place online November 10-21, allowing supporters to shop from the safety of their own homes while giving back to some of North Texas’ most deserving beneficiaries, whose important work has not halted during these difficult times.
“A virtual Chi Omega Christmas Market allows us to bring a new experience to shoppers this year, while continuing the rich tradition of spreading holiday cheer and raising critically important funds for this year’s amazing beneficiaries — the true meaning for the market,” says Jana Beth Eidson, who is co-chairing the event with her daughters Taylor Eidson Wood and Savannah Eidson Near.
During its 43-year legacy, the market has given back more than $9 million to 120 local nonprofits.
This year’s beneficiaries include Bridge Breast Network, Braswell Child Development Center, CitySquare, DME Exchange of Dallas, Family Gateway, Grant Halliburton Foundation, Make-A-Wish of North Texas, Mi Escuelita Preschool, Mommies In Need, New Friends New Life, Our Friends Place, PediPlace, Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, and The Senior Source.
The First Call for Patrons tradition will also continue, letting shoppers who make a donation shop the market a full day prior to the event’s official start.
A custom gift guide will highlight merchants from across the country, and can be requested by completing the “contact us” form on the market’s website. Follow the event on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and spotlighted items.
The first Chi Omega Christmas Market started in 1978 at the NorthPark Inn with fewer than 50 merchant booths and raised $13,150 for the Dallas community.
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