The Northside Christmas Market on St. Thomas will once again transform the parking lot of Sib’s on the Mountain into a festive holiday gathering on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The market offers a wide range of locally made goods and live music performances.
Founded and organized by Monica Bryan, the market began as an effort to create a dedicated space for Virgin Islands’ crafters, bakers, and small businesses, through the encouragement of close friend, Lisa Querrard. “After participating in markets as a vendor myself, I saw an opportunity to build something more permanent for our community. I wanted to create an event that was more than just shopping, but instead embodied a real neighborhood celebration,” Bryan said.
Bryan drew inspiration from the cultural festivals of her childhood in St. Barthélemy, known as “les fêtes des quartiers,” which blend food, music, and community. Bryan saw Sib’s on the Mountain as an ideal venue for the event. “Sib’s is more than just a restaurant, it is a cultural landmark where people already come together. Hosting the market there just made sense,” Bryan said.
From its first year, the market has prioritized vendors who make their products by hand in the Virgin Islands, followed by other small local businesses seeking greater visibility. This year’s offerings will include locally distilled guava berry rum, homemade coquito, original art, holiday baked goods, crochet items, tropical plants, artisan soaps and candles, handcrafted jewelry, local jams and preserves, gift sets, and glass art, among other unique finds.
The market is designed to be a full sensory experience. Christmas steel pan music and performances by Oliek The Accordion Man will provide a festive soundtrack throughout the day. Sibs Restaurant and Sib’s Daily Dose Cafe will be open, offering food and drink specials, making it easy for visitors to make an afternoon of it. A special visit from Santa is also planned for earlier in the day, giving families a chance to take photos and share holiday wishes.
As the market continues to grow, Bryan hopes to introduce more interactive elements in the future, such as craft stations for children and community donation initiatives. But the core goal remains the same: to create a welcoming space that celebrates the Northside community and culture during the holiday season.
Event attendees are encouraged to walk with cash, as internet service is spotty in that location. However, Sib’s on the Mountain does not have an on-site ATM available to event patrons.
All entry fees collected from vendors are donated directly to a local nonprofit, which rotates annually. The goal of this event is to be 100% community focused.
“In the right location, a neighborhood market can really meet a deeper need. It’s about connection, seeing familiar faces, finding special gifts, and sharing in the holiday spirit together,” Bryan said.
