For the third consecutive year, the Penn Street Market, located outdoors in the 800 block of Penn Street, Reading, is bringing real Christmas trees to the city of Reading for two special market Fridays. On Dec. 6 and 13, Berks County Christmas tree grower Jeremy Freymoyer will be selling Douglas and Fraser Fir cut trees ranging in height from four to seven feet. Free parking is available for customers in the 9th and Cherry Streets parking lot.
‘Shoppers will appreciate the Fraser Fir’s mild fragrance and its ability to retain its soft needles for a long time,’ said Berks County Agricultural Coordinator Sheila Miller. ‘The Fir tree’s needles do not prick easily when you are decorating it which is also nice.’ Ornaments and other holiday items and baked goods will be on sale at the outdoor farmers market located in the 800 Block of Penn Street. ‘Come out an support some of our local non-profit organizations, enjoy a delicious lunch and hot beverage, and get some great cookies, cupcakes, breads, fudge, decorations, and gifts at the Penn Street Holiday Market from 10:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. the first two Fridays in December.’
Returning for the third year are local restaurants Callowhill Cafe and Chapman’s Deli. They will be selling lunch items on Dec. 6and 13, respectively, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. Regular Penn Street Market vendors also plan to participate. Josefina’s Bakery will be selling their Dominican-style pastries. Michelle Lorah’s Perk Up Truck will also be on hand, serving up holiday-flavored hot and cold beverages, along with taste-tempting mini-pies and cookies. And Sarah Ann Stewart will be selling new and vintage jewelry.
Manor at Market Square will be participating in this year’s Holiday Market, handing out candy canes, popcorn, and selling cookies. All proceeds from their sales will go to Toys for Tots, according to activities director Rick Knerr. The Berks Community Health Center will be providing free blood pressure tests to anyone interested in this service.
‘Other guest vendors include the Episcopal Church Women from Christ Episcopal Church, located at 5th and Court Streets,’ said Miller. ‘They will be bringing fudge, breads, cookies and craft items for the holidays. Proceeds from their sales will go to local and overseas mission projects.’ Berks Agricultural Resource Network will have a table with free recipes, information on caring for Christmas trees, and more. Fundraising items for the market will also be available for people interested in supporting the farmers market through donations.
For more information about becoming a vendor or shopping at the market, contact Sheila Miller, Berks County Agricultural Coordinator at 610-898-5482 or smiller@countyofberks.com; or the website at www.pennstreetmarket.org.
