Millcreek, Utah – This weekend the Millcreek Commons holiday market opened its doors as the state’s largest‑ever showcase of Utah‑made products. Fifty‑one vendors, ranging from snack makers to artisans, are gathered in one place to offer shoppers locally produced items for the holiday season.
Utah’s Own program drives the market
The market is a partnership between the City of Millcreek and Utah’s Department of Agriculture & Food. It is built around the Utah’s Own initiative, which aims to connect consumers with agricultural and food businesses that are headquartered, manufactured, packaged or processed in Utah. “The mission of ‘Utah’s Own’ really is to connect consumers with ag and food businesses throughout the state,” said Emily Ashby, manager of the program.
Ashby explained the eligibility criteria: businesses must be based in Utah and must produce, package or process their goods within the state. “For example, if you’re making socks, the wool comes from Utah sheep,” she told FOX 13 News.
Local vendors see real benefits
Vendor Sonya Erickson, who sells Uncle Hoss’s Crisscross Crunch – a chocolate‑covered cereal cluster snack – said the holiday rush is already in full swing. “Candy Cane Crunch during the holidays outsells all of the others,” she noted. Erickson added, “This is a perfect place for anybody to come and, honestly, this place is great for the holidays. I buy a lot of my own gifts here.”
She also highlighted a recent large order that came through the Utah’s Own website, proving the program’s reach: “It definitely works, they have a great program,” Erickson said.
Economic impact stays local
According to figures shared with Ashby, 65 cents of every dollar spent on a local product stays in the community. Last year’s holiday market generated $92,000 in vendor sales over two months. Agriculture accounts for 15% of Utah’s total economy, underscoring the importance of keeping money circulating within the state.
The state also provides training and assistance to participating businesses, covering topics such as labeling requirements and social‑media promotion. The Utah’s Own website features a directory that helps shoppers locate local vendors quickly.
Hours and outlook
The Millcreek Commons holiday market will operate daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Christmas Eve. “This is top‑notch, 100% local,” Ashby said. “You’re helping real people, real lives and getting meaningful gifts that you’re giving to someone this year.”
With its emphasis on family‑friendly shopping, support for Utah‑based producers, and a clear economic benefit to the community, the market exemplifies how local initiatives can strengthen both tradition and liberty in everyday life.
Original reporting: FOX 13 KSTU (Salt Lake County) — read the source article.
