Christmas Market at the Cove is a Fun Way to Shop Local in McMinn County

Visitors to McMinn County can pick up holiday gifts and other items at Christmas Market at the Cove, a seasonal market on Saturday, December 6, from 10 am to 5 pm. The event is hosted by Country Cove Venue at 838 Highway 39E in Athens, Tennessee.

“We already have 40 vendors signed up, and expect our headcount to be closer to 50,” says Christine Randolph, who owns Country Cove Venue with her husband, Bruce. “We review each application to make sure there aren’t too many of one type of vendor.”

For example, Randolph makes sure there aren’t too many wreathmakers, bakers, or woodworkers at the event. She wants to offer diverse options so everyone can find their ideal gifts.

Mark your calendars for this fun event that has quickly become a staple of the holiday season in McMinn County. 

Enjoy Free Attendance and a Festive Environment

Admission and parking are free for customers attending Christmas Market at the Cove. This is a smoke-free, family-friendly event with a bounce house, holiday music, and an opportunity to meet Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Families looking for holiday photos can pay $30 for a picture package by Southern Grace Creative Arts, which includes several different photo sizes. This is also a dog-friendly event as long as you clean up after your pets and keep them leashed.

Randolph anticipates around 300 to 400 attendees, spread throughout the day. However, it’s a good idea to arrive early to get the first pick from the crafters and entrepreneurs selling their wares.

“We never know what to expect because there’s so much going on around Athens and McMinn County as a whole,” says Randolph. “This is our fourth seasonal market and only the second time doing a Christmas event.”

The Christmas Market at the Cove is already building a following. Some returning vendors include Nana’s Bird Realty, which creates hand-painted bird houses, and Rockin’ G&S Ranch, which sells a variety of baked goods, jams, homemade barbecue sauce, and cakes. They will sell barbecue lunch items to this year’s attendees.
“We want to invite everyone to our market to help our vendors at Christmas,” says Randolph. “This time of year means so much to the small business owners who work with us.” 

There’s Space at Country Cove Venue for Holiday Events

Country Cove Venue is available year-round for a variety of events, including weddings, birthday celebrations, and corporate gatherings. It is a 5,600-square-foot venue with both indoor and outdoor spaces. The Randolphs still have some openings during the holiday season for companies looking to book end-of-year parties or individuals celebrating with friends and family.

Bruce and Christine are also happy to recommend vendors for those who need them. Rockin’ G&S Ranch, for example, makes beautiful wedding cakes and can accommodate events of different sizes.

Country Cove Venue is located in the heart of McMinn County, just three miles (a six-minute drive) from downtown Athens. 

The Randolphs Found Their Home in McMinn County 

Country Cove Venue will celebrate its second year in operation this Christmas. Bruce and Christine moved to Athens from Old Fort in the southern part of the state. They fell in love with the house, the land, and McMinn County as a whole. They appreciate how people here are friendly and welcomed them to Athens.  

“We’ve always wanted to do this,” says Christine. “We purchased the home in 2016 and immediately started remodeling it. Bruce still works full-time, but we hope to make it our retirement project.”

McMinn County residents and visitors alike can support the Randolphs by attending Christmas Market at the Cove. This is also a great way to meet other local business owners who appreciate the involvement of the local community. 

Explore Other Seasonal Events in McMinn County

There is so much to do in McMinn County during the holiday season that it’s hard to keep up! From festive markets to live music and arts performances, you can easily feel the holiday spirit. Check out the events calendar on Discover McMinn to see what’s coming up in December. You can also explore our annual events to learn about local traditions.

It’s never too early to deck the halls – or at least deck your calendar with activities and events. Enjoy your visit to McMinn County and all the festive events that come with it.