One of my favorite things to do in November has always been going to the Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market. It is really a rite of passage for Houston-area moms. If you are new to the area or have never been, this event is put on by the Houston Ballet every year as a fundraiser for its programs, academy and scholarships. It is a HUGE shopping and Christmas wonderland that is held in NRG Center. Well, that is, it was held there. This year, due to COVID-19, this wonderful holiday staple will be held virtually for the first time in its decades-long history.
But don’t despair, ladies! I personally think this is a positive! While I will miss wearing my festive Christmas outfit and shopping ’til we drop with my mom, almost every vendor that would have normally been there in person will be offering their wares up virtually. Just think: no lines, no crowds, no lugging everything back to your car parked 2 miles away. Let me give you the details and what are some favorite vendors and items you want to check out.
Nutcracker Market General Information
You can find lots of details here, but basically the Market opens up online November 11 for early bird access (extra fee) or November 12 for the general public, and it runs through December 11. All early bird ticket proceeds and 11% of merchandise sales go to the Houston Ballet. This is a wonderful opportunity to check off your Christmas gifts list while donating money to a wonderful Houston organization!
The vendors can all be found on the home website, and most will be offering exclusive deals during the online Market. There will be an interactive map online that you should shop through in order to get these deals. See below for some ones I want you to check out!
My Favorite Nutcracker Market Vendors
Brewhouse Bakers
This bread is SO good, y’all! I have bought mixes from them ever since they first showed up at the market. And it’s very easy – all you need with each mix is a beer! Don’t worry, the alcohol burns off upon baking, but the flavor stays and is very yummy. There are so many different varieties to choose from; my favorite is the cheesy garlic.
Lucky Girl TX
I have gotten so many compliments on my customizable trucker hat that I got a few years ago from Lucky Girl. They have an Etsy shop now where you can peruse all their selections, including some festive new Christmas hats!
Mommy Made It For Me
This company makes super cute nap mats, play tents, tote bags and much more for children. I bought my 3 year old a hat and apron with her initials on it, and she LOVES putting it on to “cook” in her kitchen.
The Round Top Collection
This Texas company makes loads of adorable holiday decorations, but I really think their YARD SIGNS are the highlight. They have several store locations around town, or you can peruse and order from their online shop.
Food
The Caramel Candy Company
I think the name speaks for itself!
Company’s Comin‘
Loads of easy-to-use mixes for casseroles, soups, dips and more.
Pie in the Sky
Great LOCAL baker offering up ridiculously yummy pies. The apple is my favorite!
Wine-a-Rita
All you add to these mixes is wine (or not) to make frozen cocktails which are great for the pool, beach or hanging out with friends.
Home Decor
The Brookwood Community Shop
Beautiful, hand-crafted decorations and holiday fare made by adults with disabilities living at Brookwood Community.
Glory Haus
Super cute every day, collegiate and holiday home decor like kitchen mugs, pillows, signs, ornaments, etc.
Twelve Timbers
Beautiful wood decorations for your house, such as marquee boards, Christmas advents, lazy susans and SO much more!
Everything Else
MD Anderson Children’s Art Project
Ornaments, cards, apparel and more made by children receiving treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Manready Mercantile
Loads of items that would make great gifts for the guys in your life.
Maria Victoria
Hand-crafted Mexican-art-inspired bags; great for the pool, beach or every day use.
The Royal Standard
Variety of fun fashion items, home decorations, and other gifts for everyone on your Christmas list. Their pajamas and robes are buttery soft!
Willow Hill
Multitude of clean soaps and bath products that smell as amazing as they look! Get the sugar scrub… you won’t be sorry.
New Nutcracker Market Vendor I am excited about
Baggo
Who doesn’t love a great game of baggo? Whether it’s at a tailgate or in your backyard, this is a fun game to play with the fam, and this company has loads of designs you can pick from. I wonder if they will make me an A&M vs. Texas {house divided!} set?
Happy shopping ladies!
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