Event Basics
What is the Christmas Market?
A free community event in downtown Watsonville with vendors, food, live music, youth-focused activities, and holiday cheer.
Where is the event located?
Peck & Union St. in downtown Watsonville. (Street closure event)
What date and time is the event?
December 20, 2025 from 4pm–10pm.
Is the event free to attend?
Yes — entry and entertainment are completely free for the community.
Youth Gift Drive & Donations
What is the Youth Gift Drive?
A Christmas initiative focused on teens and older youth who are often overlooked in traditional toy drives.
What types of gifts are needed?
Teen-friendly gifts such as hoodies, beanies, skincare, blankets, journals, accessories, perfume/cologne, sports items, small electronics, gift cards, and other items teens love.
Can I donate money instead of items?
Yes — you can contribute through our online donation page.
Where can I drop off gifts?
Drop-off locations will be announced soon. Local businesses can also sign up to be official drop-off locations.
Haircuts
Are free teen haircuts guaranteed?
We plan to offer free haircuts for pre- and teens depending on final sponsorship support. We are currently speaking to more local barbers that would like to support.
What ages are eligible?
The haircut program is designed for pre-, teens and older youth.
Vendors
How do I apply to be a vendor?
Visit our Vendors page and fill out the application form.
What comes with a vendor booth?
Booth space only. Vendors must bring their own canopy, tables, lights, and setup materials.
Is electricity provided?
No but can be arranged at an additional charge.
What time is vendor setup?
Setup details will be emailed to approved vendors the week of the event.
Sponsorship
How do I become a sponsor?
Visit our Sponsor Opportunities page to view sponsor levels, benefits, and the application link.
What do sponsors help fund?
Youth gifts, teen haircuts, music, entertainment, event setup, decorations, and community activities.
Will sponsors be recognized?
Yes — recognition varies by sponsorship level, from website listings to banners and social media features.
I’m a small business and can’t afford a sponsorship. How can I still support?
You can still be part of the event in two ways:
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Become a Youth Gift Drop-Off Location
We’ll provide signage and a QR code, and we’ll handle all gift pickup.
Businesses that serve as drop-off locations receive complimentary Community Sponsor recognition. -
Donate items from your business (In-Kind Sponsorship)
Gift cards, merch, clothing, services, products, or teen-friendly items can all be donated.
In-kind donors receive sponsor recognition based on the value of their contribution.
Your support makes a big impact, even if it’s not financial — and we deeply appreciate it.
Volunteers
Can I volunteer at the event?
Yes — volunteers help with gift tables, vendor coordination, line management, setup, and more.
Is there an age requirement?
Volunteers must be at least 16 years old (minors need a parent’s permission).
How do I sign up?
Visit our Volunteer page to submit your information.
General Information
Is the event kid-friendly?
Yes — families and children of all ages are welcome.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.
Is there parking?
Downtown street and lot parking is available on a first-come basis.
Will restrooms be available?
Yes — portable restrooms will be accessible near the event area.
Who is organizing the event?
The Christmas Market is organized by local community members with support from sponsors passionate about serving our youth.