Katy’s beloved community market is set to make its comeback this December, moving to a new venue after a two‑year pause. The market, which has been a staple of downtown Katy for three decades, will now be held at The Dryer, a local event space that will host the first “Katy Old‑Fashioned Christmas” market on Dec. 5.
New leadership keeps the tradition alive
Long‑time co‑founder Betsy Proctor, who helped launch the market, stepped aside after the city council declined her 2025 proposal to close downtown streets for the event. In the summer of 2024, city officials offered to take ownership of the market in 2026, but Proctor declined the offer at that time.
Enter Hadi “Andrew” Nurcahya, principal owner of The Dryer. In a Nov. 6 social‑media post, Nurcahya announced he would host Katy Market Day on behalf of Proctor. “We’re just being very respectful, very blessed to be able to continue on the tradition and we were very grateful that we have been given the honor to continue it,” he said.
Why the change of venue matters
The move to The Dryer provides a larger, more flexible space for vendors and visitors alike. Nurcahya noted that the market’s biggest challenge has always been managing traffic and crowd size, and the new location will help address those concerns while still preserving the festive atmosphere that longtime attendees cherish.
Proctor expressed gratitude for the transition, saying she no longer has the time or energy to organize the market herself. “It’s a lot of memories for a lot of people,” she said. “I’m looking forward to rekindling those memories and then making new ones for my grandkids.”
What to expect at the first event
The Dec. 5 “Katy Old‑Fashioned Christmas” market will run from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., featuring a variety of local vendors, holiday treats, snow décor, and photo opportunities with Santa. After this inaugural holiday market, the regular Katy Market Day will settle into a monthly schedule, taking place on the third Saturday of each month at The Dryer beginning in January.
Nurcahya is optimistic that the new setting will attract additional vendors beyond those who already participate in the Old Katy Farmers Market, further enriching the local economy and providing families with more shopping choices.
Community impact
For Katy residents, the market represents more than just a place to buy goods; it’s a gathering spot that reinforces community bonds and supports local entrepreneurs. By keeping the market alive, both Proctor and Nurcahya are preserving a piece of Katy’s cultural heritage while adapting to modern needs.
Local families can look forward to a safe, family‑friendly environment where children can enjoy holiday festivities and adults can browse handcrafted items, artisanal foods, and unique gifts—all under one roof.
Looking ahead
With the market’s return, the city’s downtown revitalization efforts gain a new partner in The Dryer. The venue’s management plans to work closely with city officials to ensure smooth traffic flow and to maintain the market’s tradition of community service.
Residents are encouraged to spread the word, support local vendors, and make the most of the holiday market’s offerings. As the market settles into its new home, it promises to remain a cherished Katy tradition for years to come.
Original reporting: Community Impact — Houston — read the source article.
