Staten Island residents embraced the holiday spirit this past weekend, trading the frenzy of Black Friday adn Cyber Monday for a more leisurely shopping experience at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden’s annual Holiday Hop. Hundreds flocked to the event on Saturday, eager to discover unique gifts crafted by local artisans and savor tasty treats prepared by talented Staten Island cooks.
Among the attendees was City Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks,who holds a special fondness for Snug Harbor. ”I took art lessons here for eight years,” Hanks shared, “and those classes were instrumental in helping me get accepted to LaGuardia High School.”
The Holiday Hop offered a delightful blend of holiday cheer and community spirit, showcasing the rich artistic talent and culinary creativity that Staten Island has to offer.
The event provided a welcome respite from the holiday shopping rush, allowing visitors to connect with local artists and makers, discover one-of-a-kind gifts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Snug Harbor’s stunning grounds.
Staten Island Embraces Holiday Spirit at Snug Harbor’s Festive ‘Holiday Hop’
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Hundreds of Staten Island residents opted for a more relaxed holiday shopping experience this past weekend, bypassing the frenzy of Black Friday and Cyber Monday for the charm of Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden’s annual Holiday Hop.The event showcased the borough’s rich artistic talent and culinary creativity, offering a delightful blend of holiday cheer and community spirit.
Adding to the festive atmosphere was City Councilwoman Kamillah Hanks, who holds a special fondness for snug Harbor. “I took art lessons here for eight years,” Hanks shared, “and those classes were instrumental in helping me get accepted to LaGuardia High School.”
The Holiday Hop provided a welcome respite from the holiday shopping rush, allowing visitors to connect with local artists and makers, discover unique gifts, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of Snug harbor’s stunning grounds.
A Haven for Local Artisans
To better understand the impact of events like the Holiday Hop, we spoke with Maria Sanchez, Executive Director of the Staten Island Arts Council.
World Today News: How does an event like the Holiday Hop benefit local artisans and makers?
“The Holiday Hop provides a vital platform for Staten Island’s talented artisans to connect directly with customers,showcase their unique creations,and gain valuable exposure within the community.It’s a splendid prospect for them to build their brands and possibly increase their sales during the holiday season.”
**WTN: What types of artistic mediums were represented at the event?**
“The Holiday hop boasted a diverse range of artistic mediums, from handcrafted jewelry and pottery to paintings, photography, and artisanal food products. It truly captured the breadth of creative talent that exists on Staten Island.”
Celebrating Community and Tradition
We also spoke with Michael Russo, President of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, to learn more about the event’s meaning.
WTN: How does the Holiday Hop align with Snug Harbor’s mission and vision?
“The Holiday Hop embodies Snug Harbor’s commitment to fostering community engagement and celebrating the arts. It’s a joyful occasion that brings people together,supports local artists,and creates cherished holiday memories for families.”
**WTN: What makes this event so special for the Staten Island community?**
“the Holiday Hop provides a unique opportunity for Staten Islanders to experience the magic of the holidays in a beautiful and historic setting. It’s a chance to support local businesses, discover one-of-a-kind gifts, and connect with friends and neighbors in a festive atmosphere.”
A Welcome Option to the Shopping Frenzy
The Holiday hop demonstrated that Staten Islanders are eager to embrace alternative holiday shopping experiences that emphasize community, creativity, and local artistry. Events like this offer a welcome respite from the often-overwhelming commercial aspects of the season, allowing people to connect with the true spirit of the holidays.
**Want to learn more about supporting Staten Island’s vibrant arts community? Visit the Staten Island Arts Council website at [link to website]. To discover upcoming events at Snug Harbor, check their calendar at [link to calendar].**
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