By Kylie Masznicz
Located on Victoria Avenue in Sparks, 39 North Pole Village was a cute open market event held in early December to help put one in the Christmas spirit. There were festivities for all age groups, and I found I enjoyed my time more than I predicted.
Immediately upon arrival one is greeted with Christmas lights and inflatable Christmas décor lining the street. On either side are adorable photo backdrops of various Christmas films. Pose next to Frosty the Snowman or impersonate Winona Ryder at the Stranger Things living room set.
This was a welcomed surprise for me. The photo opportunities appealed to me as a Generation Z social media fanatic. I felt this featured opened this event up for more age groups to be able to enjoy and take quirky photos for their Instagram and Facebook accounts.
After exploring the fun photo ops, I was definitely craving some hot chocolate. Fortunately, a food truck selling just that was conveniently located nearby. Grabbing a hot cup and some mini donuts to go with it, I was able to sit and take a breather while enjoying my festive treats.
During this rest though, I felt Christmas music was needed. I wish the event had speakers playing some traditional songs throughout to really encompass one in the Holiday mood. Live music was played at various points, but the performances were really children-focused and sparse.
Another child-focused event was the art bus. I joined the young ones to decorate my own craft. The event literally took place on a bus decked out in children’s painted hand prints and other homemade crafts. The seating was cramped, but it was a nice escape from the cold outside and was completely free! Children and their parents could paint ornaments or canvas paper to design their own Christmas art to take home.
Finally, the market stands are perhaps the biggest appeal of the event. They’re located under a large tent, so shoppers aren’t in the cold as they browse. The market features creative minds from around Reno. There are vendors selling art, clothing, and food. I usually tend to stay away from these open markets as products seem to be really jacked up due to the labor put behind the item.
However, I felt the prices were fair and didn’t feel the need to haggle for anything. Lots of the food vendors were also giving out samples, so you could enjoy some small treats while shopping. My favorite aspect were the carolers singing in the center of the tent. I’ve never seen carolers before and it was a very heart-warming and Christmassy addition.
39 North Village isn’t running anymore this year, but this event takes place over a weekend each year in early December. The art bus is featured every year as well as the live music and vendors. I recommend taking the whole family for an evening of Christmas spirit. 
