As autumn settles over Geauga County and the holiday season draws near, the Briar campus grounds are opening once again for an afternoon dedicated to community, craftsmanship, and good neighbors. On Saturday, November 7, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM, The Cottages at Briar will host our Holiday Outdoor Market — featuring over 40 local artisan vendors, food trucks, seasonal treats, and family traditions.
Following the heartfelt turnout at our spring Bloom & Browse market, this holiday gathering continues Briar’s quarterly community engagement series. It is an unhurried afternoon designed to bring together residents, families, friends, and Geauga County neighbors to enjoy the magic of a hometown holiday season.
“When my grandfather and grandmother, our founders, started these markets, they knew it was about so much more than just selling things — it was about bringing the community together. Our markets have always been about something deeper than just shopping — they’re about connection. Bringing over 40 talented local makers and food trucks together with our residents, their families, and our Middlefield neighbors creates an atmosphere that truly feels like home.” — Kristin Wallace, Senior Living Advisor at Briar
What to Expect: 40+ Artisan Vendors, Food Trucks & Sweet Treats
Whether you are getting a head start on Christmas gift shopping, finding one-of-a-kind Thanksgiving host gifts, or simply craving something freshly baked, you will find an expansive selection of local talent across the market lawn:
- Handmade Artisan Gifts: Hand-poured holiday soy candles, cozy knitwear, bespoke jewelry, festive wreaths, hand-carved woodwork, natural skincare, and holiday home décor crafted by local makers and resident artisans.
- Fresh Bakes & Seasonal Sweets: Handcrafted maple leaf cookies, gourmet festive cupcakes, warm pumpkin pastries, artisan sourdough, local honey, and seasonal jams.
- Food Trucks & Warm Drinks: Local food trucks serving up hearty lunch favorites, alongside steaming cups of spiced apple cider and specialty barista-crafted coffee.
Family Fun: Santa & Mrs. Claus, S’mores & 50/50 Raffle
Bring the whole family — kids, parents, and grandparents alike — for an afternoon packed with festive holiday cheer:
Holiday Traditions on the Lawn
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Photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus Bring your camera for complimentary holiday photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus throughout the afternoon.
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The Fireside S’more Station Warm up by the fire pits and toast marshmallows to create your own gooey, golden s’mores.
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50/50 Community Raffle Take part in our afternoon 50/50 drawing benefiting local community programs and resident life events.
Save & Share the Official Market Invitation
Planning to visit with friends or family? Download the official event flyer to share on social media, print for your fridge, or pass along to a neighbor.
More Than a Market: Life at The Cottages
For Ohman Family Living — which has cared for and celebrated Geauga County families since 1965 — our campus is designed as a true neighborhood. One where front porches encourage conversation, where neighbors look out for one another, and where community gatherings are a natural part of daily life.
The market takes place across the grounds of The Cottages at Briar, our 55+ independent living neighborhood in Middlefield. If you or a loved one have been curious about maintenance-free single-story living — with zero lawn mowing, no snow shoveling, and the security of a vibrant community — our model cottage will be open for relaxed walkthroughs throughout the afternoon.