Many a front stoop is still adorned with pumpkins and mums, but that is about to change as the holiday season is getting under way. Here in the Roanoke valley, one of the long-standing traditions to kick off the holiday shopping season is to check out the annual “Stocked Market.” Sponsored by The Junior League, the event recently outgrew the Salem Civic Center, and will be held at the Roanoke Civic Center November 12-14 this year.
A virtual Santa’s workshop, vendors come from near and far – offering something for everyone. From gourmet foods to jewelry to holiday ornaments and décor as well as fashions, accessories, arts, antiques, home and garden items and more, many make headway on Christmas shopping as well as year-round gift-giving.
According to League President Nicole Terrill, “the Junior League is looking forward to our 22nd year of Stocked Market, our holiday shopping extravaganza. In 21 years, we have raised over $2 million which we have proudly given back to our community to help improve childhood health and welfare.”
The League’s largest fundraiser, the signature event has become a huge undertaking, with a committee “comprised of 22 women, [who have] been working since February to put together this wonderful fundraiser; their efforts have certainly paid off,” according to Terrill.
In addition to the plethora of browsing and shopping opportunities, Communications VP Allie Buth explains that “each year there are a number of different events within the Stocked Market.” Cox Communications is providing a lounge with TV’s tuned to football games for the men who decide to come along but don’t want to shop. There will also be a booth providing free gift wrapping, compliments of the Junior League and the Roanoke Adolescent Health Partnership (RAHP). For anyone who may still be dragging their feet getting in the holiday spirit, photos with Santa are being offered by Sunny~WYYD~Steve FM~WJJS (all Clear Channel stations).
To get a jump on the busy weekend crowds and scout out this year’s offerings, there are also special shopping events planned. Splurge – A Preview Cocktail Shopping Gala (Thursday, November 11, from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.; $45/person or $80/couple) includes heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by Encore Catering, two beverage tickets and a 3-day admission pass. Attendees will get a chance to win martini-set diamond earrings donated by Fink’s Jewelers.
The Sneak Peek Preview Coffee event will be held Friday, November 12, from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. ($15/person) and includes coffee and gourmet breakfast provided by Holiday Inn Valley View plus a 3-day admission pass. Nancy Ruth Patterson, Roanoke’s very own author, will be on hand for book signings.
The proceeds from the event will be used to help fund many local organizations that the Junior League supports. This is the second year the League is concentrating on childhood health and welfare – contributing to places like Apple Ridge Farm, The Roanoke Rescue Mission, Ronald McDonald House, and others. Junior League leaders feel by making a concentrated effort in one area of need, they will be able to see greater positive community impact in the Roanoke Valley.
Regarding this year’s Stocked Market, Buth says that “there is a good mix of local and national support – we are excited” at all that is being offered. Terrill adds, “Please come shop, support our merchants, and buy tickets so we can continue our great tradition of raising money for the young citizens of Roanoke. We are grateful to the community for its support!”
Doors are open Friday, November 12, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.; Saturday, November 13, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday, November 14, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. General admission (3-day pass) is $8 in advance, $9 at the door. Parking is free; children 12 & under are free.
To purchase tickets, visit www.jlrv.org. Tickets can also be purchased from a Junior League member, at the Junior League office, Fink’s Jewelers, Holiday Inn Valley View or Hometown Bank. For more details, please contact Teresa at 540.343.3663 or [email protected]
