Whistlestop Marketplace in Newton Saturday

Published 4:00 am Friday, December 4, 2015

    More than 40 vendors selling crafts, baked goods, clothing, gifts and other items will be available this weekend at the Sixth Annual WhistleStop Marketplace in Newton.

    Hosted by Newton Chamber of Commerce, the event is scheduled for Saturday, from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Historic Newton Depot. Jewelry, baked goods, handmade furniture, woodworking items, baby items, candles, clothing, t-shirts, gift items, kettle corn and other items will be available, according to Newton Chamber of Commerce Director Leigh Anne Whittle.

    “Also on hand will be our very own Newton Historical Cultural Commission selling baked goods and poinsettias,” Whittle said. “The Pink Ladies with Pioneer Community Hospital of Newton will also be selling their traditional teddy bears, kitchen items and baked goods.”

    Apple cider, hot chocolate and coffee will be provided by Newton County Bank/BankFirst for visitors to enjoy while shopping.

    For $1, shoppers can register for a La-Z-Boy chair or a gift basket created by all the vendors, Whittle said.

    The WhistleStop Marketplace was organized six years ago by Whittle and former Newton Chamber executive director Angie Burks, who wanted to provide Newton County residents a local option for Christmas arts and crafts shopping.

    The Christmas Caboose will also be open for tours during the marketplace and will be open again Dec. 12 and Dec. 19 for $2 tours.

    All proceeds go toward future Chamber events, including the Loose Caboose Festival, which is held in March.