Saturday, November 18, marked the return of Christmas Village in Center City, reports Katie Katro for 6abc. 

Each year, a collection of entrepreneurial vendors set up shop near City Hall and display their items for people to see and buy. 

“A lot of small businesses don’t necessarily have brick-and-mortar retail stores, so events like this are a significant source of their income,” said John Oleski, owner of Kylie’s Canine Treats.

For some small business owners, Christmas Village represents an opportunity for them to see familiar faces return from previous years.

For some visitors, however, Christmas Village is a yearly tradition. 

“It’s pretty great … I love the vibes, nice people. All the local shops, it’s a very great market,” said Vorrapard Kumthongde, who is from Brooklyn, New York, and visits Christmas Village in Philadelphia on a yearly basis. 

People of all ages often find use in Christmas Village because it provides an opportunity to see great merchandise, can put people at ease, and help them enjoy the holiday spirit. 

For others, it’s the perfect chance to do some Christmas shopping for their loved ones. 

Christmas Village will remain open through Christmas Eve on December 24.

Read more about the lore of Christmas Village in 6abc. 

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