The Junior League Holiday Market celebrates 15 years (updated with new photos!)

story and photos by Linda Kaufenberg

(Ruth Rye, left, and Ashley Ahlert, Holiday Market Chairperson)

The Junior League of Fort Smith’s 15th Anniversary Holiday Market Gala brought more than 200 guests to the Fort Smith Convention Center Thursday (Nov. 20). Sponsored by Littlefield Oil Company, the gala featured Champagne on Ice by Newton’s Jewelers, giving patrons a chance to win a diamond.

The Junior League of Fort Smith is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Bedazzled and bedecked guests made bids on premier silent and live auctions, enjoyed a gourmet dinner and full bar and listened to entertainment by Music by Three. Holiday Market booths were open until 8 p.m. for their shopping pleasure.

“We are hoping to do the best we can this year to support all our community projects,” noted Ruth Rye, Holiday Day Market Marketing Chairperson. “Ashley (Ahlert) has done a wonderful job putting it all together. And she has a two-month old baby, Bennett.”

In addition to the Gala, regular shopping hours are Friday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 22 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Breakfast with Santa featuring lots of sun and a visit from Santa is Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and is sponsored by Udouj Orthodontics.

Proceeds of Holiday Market go to Adult Education Center, Buckle Up and Be Safe, Children’s Emergency League, Done in a Day projects and Kids-in-the-Kitchen.

“It is most rewarding knowing that all the hard work and money we raise from Holiday Market goes back to our local charities,” said Ashley Ahlert, Holiday Market Chairperson. “Thanks to all our sponsors for tonight’s event and all our silent and live auction donors.”