This December, the Bradenton Area Convention Center will transform into a holiday wonderland unlike anything the area has seen before. The European Holiday Market with a Gulf Coast Twist is the first of a series of signature events, hosted by the Bradenton Area Convention Center. It promises an immersive experience, blending old-world charm with the Bradenton Area’s coastal character.
From December 4–8, visitors will step into a European-inspired village full of artisan vendors, festive cuisine, live theater productions, and high-tech video projections bringing the holiday village to life.
Additionally, eventgoers will enjoy a collection of Christmas trees, with custom-made ornaments created by local students, representing several European countries. The community will cast their vote for their favorite decorated tree and the winning school will receive a pizza party and educators will receive an elevated dinner experience.
Step into a Festive European Village
Begin your journey in an 1880s-inspired European train depot before stepping into a magical holiday village where high-tech video projections bring the market to life. Browse artisan stalls featuring unique, handcrafted treasures.
From eco-friendly jewelry and seasonal decor to island-inspired gifts, and Turkish mosaic glass, the carefully curated vendors ensure you’ll find something truly special for everyone on your list.
This year, in recognition of the challenges vendors have faced over the past two months, the event team has waived all vendor fees, making it an even more meaningful and supportive marketplace.
Savor European-Inspired Flavors with a Gulf Coast Twist
Local favorites Oscura and Oysters Rock Hospitality, representing Anna Maria Oyster Bar Café L’Europe and Kefi Streetside Café will serve European-inspired dishes with a coastal twist, including lamb meatball skewers, Bavarian pretzels with beer cheese, crispy potatoes with garlic chimichurri, and authentic German bratwurst.
Sweet treats like Belgian waffles with bittersweet chocolate and orange zest are also on the menu.
Pair your bites with festive beverages like Glühwein (mulled wine), hot apple cider (with optional bourbon or Fireball), citrusy Floridian hot cocoa, holiday ales, holiday margaritas, and craft cocktails like the Mistletoe Manhattan and Plum Berry Mule to keep your spirits bright.
Create Holiday Memories with Hands-On Traditions
Dive into family-friendly workshops where you can craft dried orange ornaments (a nod to both European decor and Florida’s citrus heritage), design holiday cards, or create festive wreaths.
Don’t miss the live theater production, Far Way Home, a heartwarming story of four travelers sharing holiday traditions through food, music, and stories from across Europe. Showtimes are available daily.
Other activities include art installations, holiday tree displays, a model train exhibit, and photo opportunities with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and other holiday characters – featuring the Christkind Angel and Anna Maria, a new addition to Gulf Coast folklore.
Don’t Miss this Memorable Holiday Experience
The European Holiday Market will run from Wednesday, December 4th through Sunday, December 8th.
Opening Day, Wednesday, December 4 – runs from 12 pm – 9 pm, with a kick-off concert presented by First Baptist Palmetto’s 100-person orchestra and choir at 6:30 pm. This concert is
free and open to the public.
All other market days run from 11 am to 9 pm except Thursday
when it closes at 2 pm for a private event. The European Holiday Market with a Gulf Coast Twist is held at the Bradenton Area Convention Center (1 Haben Blvd, Palmetto, FL 34221) and The
Yard Palmetto Resort & Spa (US 41 N., Palmetto, FL 34221).
Follow the European Holiday Market on Facebook and Instagram for sneak peeks and updates.
Tickets are $15 when purchased in advance and $20 at the door. You can get a $5 discount when purchasing 5 or more tickets at one time. On Wednesday and Thursday, Veterans and Educators can take advantage of 1/2 price tickets
(Just $7.50). Kids 8 and under also get in for free each day.
Don’t miss out on the chance to experience this one-of-a-kind holiday market that’s sure to become a new favorite tradition.
Get your tickets now 👇
