Step through the doors of Smyrna First United Methodist Church this December, and you’ll be greeted by the sights, sounds, and scents of the season — cinnamon-sweet baked goods, twinkling lights, and rows of tables overflowing with handmade treasures. It’s GiftMart, a cherished Smyrna tradition where the joy of the holidays meets the heart of giving.
From December 3–6, the church’s Welcome Center transforms into a cozy winter marketplace filled with the work of more than 50 talented artisans. Shoppers will find everything from candles and pottery to jewelry, woodcrafts, and festive décor — each item made with love and meant to be shared. But what makes GiftMart truly special is that every purchase gives twice: once to the lucky recipient and again to local families in need.
All proceeds from GiftMart benefit United Women in Faith missions and the Tillman House Resource Center, a Smyrna-based outreach that provides diapers, hygiene products, and necessities to families facing hard times. Over the years, funds from GiftMart have also supported organizations like SafePath, Street Grace, and Beloved Atlanta — ensuring that the spirit of generosity stretches far beyond the event itself.
This year, that connection grows even deeper. Organizers are sponsoring several Tillman clients as first-time vendors, covering their fees and helping them share their talents, earn income, and create a brighter Christmas for their families. “Supporting creativity while strengthening our community is what makes GiftMart truly special,” organizers say.
For Julia Devane, Director of Missions at Tillman House, the impact is easy to see. “You’ll never forget the look on a mom’s face when she realizes she can pick up essentials for her children — and it’s all free,” she says. “Those moments of relief and gratitude are the true spirit of Christmas.”
The weekend also brings plenty of merry-making for all ages: Festive Friday, a craft night for ages 12 and up that supports UWF missions, and Hands On Christmas, a children’s craft fair held Saturday, December 6, from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Kids can craft handmade gifts and ornaments to share with family and friends amid festive stations, glitter and glue, photos with Santa, and even a dress-up Nativity scene — a morning full of wonder, laughter, and cheer.
At its heart, GiftMart is about more than gifts — it’s about kindness wrapped in creativity, joy shared among neighbors, and the reminder that the brightest part of the season isn’t found under a tree, but in the giving.
GiftMart 2025
Smyrna First United Methodist Church
1315 Concord Rd SE, Smyrna, GA 30080
Hours:
Wednesday, December 3: 4 PM–9 PM
Thursday, December 4: 9 AM–2 PM
Friday, December 5: 4 PM–9 PM
Saturday, December 6: 9 AM–2 PM
Admission is free.
More Holiday Markets to Explore
The magic of the season doesn’t end with GiftMart. Across Smyrna, twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of cinnamon and pine set the stage for more holiday shopping adventures. From outdoor markets to cozy historic venues, these local events offer the perfect chance to discover unique treasures, support small businesses, and soak in the community spirit that makes Smyrna shine this time of year.
Kris Kringle Market
Tuesday, December 2 | 5–9 PM | Village Green Park
As part of the City of Smyrna’s beloved Home for the Holidays celebration and annual Tree Lighting, the Kris Kringle Market transforms King Street and Village Green Park into a wonderland of lights, laughter, and local shopping. More than just a market, it’s a community gathering where neighbors mingle, families sip cocoa, and Santa himself makes a cheerful appearance. Visitors can browse handmade goods, seasonal décor, and thoughtful gifts while enjoying festive entertainment beneath Smyrna’s sparkling Christmas tree.
Smyrna Handmade Holiday Market
Saturday, December 6 (10 AM–6 PM) | Sunday, December 7 (11 AM–5 PM) | Reed House & Brawner Hall
The celebration continues the following weekend at the Smyrna Handmade Holiday Market, hosted inside two of the city’s most picturesque historic landmarks. The Reed House and Brawner Hall set the scene for a cozy shopping experience filled with local artisans, makers, and creators offering everything from jewelry and artwork to baked goods and home décor. It’s the perfect place to find something special — made with heart and crafted close to home.
Together, these markets remind us that the true joy of the holidays comes not just from what we buy, but from the connections we make along the way.
“At GiftMart, every purchase gives twice — once to the loved one receiving a thoughtful handmade gift, and again to a local family in need. It’s where creativity meets compassion and the true spirit of the season comes to life.”
“Shop small, shine bright, and celebrate the season at Smyrna’s holiday markets—where every gift tells a story and supports a neighbor.”