TYLER, Texas – The Junior League of Tyler kicked off its 48th annual Mistletoe & Magic holiday shopping market on Wednesday evening with a preview party at the W.T. Brookshire Conference Center. The market, which runs through Saturday at 4 p.m., brings together more than 70 vendors from Texas and neighboring states to raise funds for Smith County nonprofit organizations.
Event details and community impact
General market shopping opened to the public Thursday at 11 a.m. after a private morning session that attracted an estimated 650 attendees. Admission is $12 and tickets can be purchased at the door or online. Vendors offer a wide range of items, including women’s boutique clothing, artwork, specialty foods, spice mixes, pet supplies, and children’s ride‑on ponies.
“Every dollar that we raise goes right back into our community,” said Lindsay Durr, chair of the event. “The Junior League of Tyler donates money back to nonprofits here in Smith County, but also with our money we send women volunteers that support those nonprofits as well.”
Volunteer effort behind the scenes
A committee of 42 women has been planning the market since last year’s event, handling everything from decorations to merchant recruitment and the weekend schedule. Their coordinated effort reflects the Junior League’s long‑standing commitment to volunteer‑driven community service.
Fund‑raising goals and past success
In 2025 the market generated more than $480,000 net through vendor booth fees, ticket sales, and auction proceeds. This year’s organizers have set a goal to exceed $500,000, with all net proceeds earmarked for local programs.
Proceeds support several Junior League‑managed initiatives, such as care closets that distribute essential hygiene products to schools across Smith County. Funds also benefit “Girl Power,” an annual leadership and self‑care seminar for sixth‑grade girls, as well as area organizations including Bethesda Health Clinic and Discovery Science Place.
Additional ticketed events
Throughout the market weekend, several ticketed events are scheduled, offering attendees more ways to contribute while enjoying holiday entertainment. Full details and a schedule are available at mistletoeandmagic.com.
The Mistletoe & Magic market continues to be a beloved holiday tradition in Tyler, providing families with a festive shopping experience while directly supporting the charitable needs of Smith County. With strong community participation and a clear fundraising target, the event exemplifies how local volunteerism can translate into tangible resources for those who need them most.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
