TEXARKANA, Ark. - The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to the cancellation of the Mistletoe Market for the second straight year.
The fair was scheduled to occur Dec. 3 to Dec. 5 at the Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center, marking the 35th anniversary of the Junior League of Texarkana hosting the event, which annually ushers in the holiday shopping season with a unique variety of local and regional vendors.
The Junior League of Texarkana's board of directors announced the decision in a news release.
"Following increased and overwhelming concern for the public health and safety of our League members, partners and the entire area, the Board believes this difficult decision is the right choice," the release stated. "While we are certainly disappointed this year's Mistletoe Market will no longer take place as originally planned, we believe we have a sincere duty to our patrons and local community."
Annually, the Mistletoe Market combines the shopping occasion with entertainment over a handful of days, raising funds for the Junior League's community projects.
However, the Junior League of Texarkana is eyeing virtual events and other ways to continue that fundraising.
"Presently, the League and the Mistletoe Market planning committee is working to transition as much of the traditional Mistletoe Market into virtual events, as well as potentially multiple events that can be held in a smaller setting to provide us additional fundraising opportunities for the remaining year," the local Junior League announced.
The Junior League of Texarkana canceled its 2020 plans for the same reason, stating, "This was an extremely difficult decision, in conjunction with the Mistletoe Market leadership team, but was made out of an abundance of caution and overwhelming concern for the public health and safety of our League members, city officials, corporate partners, vendors, guests and the entire Texarkana twin city area."
The League says it will continue fundraising efforts to support their projects related to hunger, literacy and poverty.
"The Board of Directors will continue to address these uncharted times together with compassion as our members strive to promote the mission of the Junior League of Texarkana through other creative outlets."
(For more information, visit jltexarkana.org or call 870-772-9948.)