Over 200 students circulated in and out of the Otter Student Union (OSU) for chill holiday vibes at the Winter Night Market. Throughout the evening, mellow music and laughter filled the room as students, staff and more enjoyed the atmosphere.
“I’m happy to be invited here for my first one, hopefully it’s not my last one,” said local vendor Elizabeth Cox, whose business “Da-Liz-ious” is based in Soledad. She specializes in baked goods and cake decorations for large events.
“Oh it’s great, everybody here is really, really friendly. I noticed that these college kids love chocolate mocha cake. Such a good turn out so far,” said Cox.
Presented by Associated Students, the Entrepreneurship Club and the Institute for Innovation and Economic Development (iiED), this event was intended for the on-campus community to enjoy local vendors and crafts.
Local vendors were present: on the inside (about eight tables) and on the outside (about 30).
Outside tables included the return of the popular Thai Sweet Treats, clothing, garden decorations, candles and more pastries/hot chocolate all available for purchase.
On the inside was a complementary hot chocolate bar, featuring mini marshmallows, candy and an assortment of syrups.
Live guitar player, Glenn Bell, set the tone for the evening with his chill, jazz-type winter music. He could be heard playing acoustic covers of popular songs like “Birds of a Feather” by Billie Eilish and “Agora Hills” by Doja Cat throughout the night.
Five large circular tables were also laid out for people to make their own bracelets and keychains. Many groups of friends were socializing as they created their personal pieces to take home.
Everything from candy, homemade Christmas decorations, incense, jewelry and pottery could be purchased from the various booths present.
Not all tables selling merchandise were from out of town or far away.
“I’m here with Monsoon Season Prints, it’s my own company. And I sell posters, bookmarks and stickers“ to promote awareness for the environment, said fourth year graphic design major Varsha Punati.
“I think there’s quite a lot of engagement here and I’m really excited about it, because I have never worked an event so big,” Punati said.