Gioia Guarino ‘23

Features Section Editor

Were you looking for holiday presents for friends and family? The CAB (Campus Activities Board) Holiday Market occurred this past Friday, December 2, 2022! Inspired by the holiday spirit and season of gift-giving, the Holiday Market featured perfect stocking stuffers and gift ideas. The event took place in the Hogan Ballroom from 12 – 5 pm featuring local Worcester and Holy Cross businesses! Interested attendees could find details and time information on MyHC prior to the event. 

Amongst the various vendors, run by Worcester and Holy Cross small businesses, were perfect gifts ranging from jewelry to candles to school spirit merchandise! The Working 4 Worcester table featured inventory pertaining to their service-based club. In particular, hats were being sold with the W4W logo in varying colors! A perfect gift for family and friends, the table got into the season’s spirit while raising money for their Worcester community-based service. 

In support of small, local businesses, CAB invited many to sell and promote their products during the bazaar. By incorporating Worcester businesses, those who attended could learn more about the Worcester community and the hidden gems/brands not too far from our campus. Kommon Sense Co., a sustainable gift boutique in Worcester, MA, stood out to me! The business adorned its table with its products, including amazing-smelling candles! My family loves candles, which is arguably one of their favorite gifts. Their products are ethically produced and sourced in Massachusetts, smelling delicious and promoting environmentally conscious shopping! Need to browse their products? Follow them on Instagram @ksenseco.

In addition to the act of buying gifts was the spirit that encapsulated the ballroom. Holy Cross students were encouraged to walk around the market, reminding me of European Christmas markets. From music to a rotation-like stroll, the market put me in the holiday spirit amongst my drowning finals courseload. 

As I walked around the room, I felt a great sense of community wash over me. My friend Catherine and I aimlessly strolled after our classes ended for the day, clearing my mind of my workload. Events like these are excellent for students on campus to take a break from schoolwork, enjoy quality time with friends, and enjoy the near-approaching holidays. 

The market supported small businesses and the Holy Cross community during the holiday season. You may have missed the market and are struggling during finals season to gift grab; there’s always the bookstore!