USJ Holiday Mart opens Friday

DOWNTOWN JACKSON — Are the holidays already stressing you out? Knock out some of your Christmas list this weekend while helping contribute to a good cause.

“We’ve got clothing. We’ve got accessories. We’ve got toys. We’ve got home decorations. Pretty much anything you can think of for your holiday needs, we have,” said Nikki Watlington, Holiday Mart Chairman and parent.

The 46th annual University School of Jackson Holiday Mart takes place Friday through Sunday at the Carl Perkins Civic Center in downtown Jackson. This year, there are around 125 vendors from across the United States.

“I know several from Mississippi and Alabama, so there’s vendors from everywhere, ” Mandy Norsworthy, a vendor and parent, said. “And you’ll see a lot of unique things you don’t see every day.”

The event is USJ’s largest fundraiser, with ticket sales and money raised from volunteer, parent-run booths being used to help pay for a variety of school-related projects and supplies.

“We have purchased iPads for use in the lower school. We have purchased smart boards for use in the high school. We’ve funded different activities and different books,” Watlington said.

There also will be special events held throughout the weekend such as the Jingle Belle Mingle, where shopping will re-open later in the evening while food and cocktails are served.

You can purchase tickets or find more information on the USJ Holiday Mart website.