Houston's Famous Nutcracker Market - Tips and Tricks For This Seasons Holiday Shopping Wonderland

Houston's Famous Nutcracker Market- Tips and Tricks For This Seasons Holiday Shopping Wonderland
With the winter holidays just around the corner its time to think about shopping! And what better way than to attend Houston's signature holiday Nutcracker Market  (and lets not forget fundraiser) to kick of the Holiday season! Whether you fall into the category of the planned serious shopper or want to leisurely sip mimosas on a casual peruse, we have the tips and tricks just for you! 
The Breakdown 
The Houston Nutcracker Market is a four day shopping extravaganza from November 8th-11th that benefits the Houston Ballet. The market takes places each year at NRG Center and hosts around 300 merchants. From home decor, gifts, and one of a kind bites the Nutcracker Market offers a little of everything. Stock up on your Holiday season decor or flaunt impeccable gift giving this season by attending this magical market. 
When to go: 
While the market opens at 10am the crowds always seem to dissipate by the later afternoon. We recommend going late in the day on Friday or Saturday when items should still be readily available and you won't have to deal with the as many crowds on the opening rush. However, keep in mind if you want to just pop in for a quick trip that admissions from 6pm-8pm are discounted. For the die hards out there that want to show up more than two days snag the priority shopping pass for $50 to save some money and have early bird access (gain e entry at 8:30am vs. 10am. 
Before you go: 
Our money and time saving recommendation if you plan on attending the market this year is to snag your tickets in advance at Randalls. You will be able to get $2.00's off per ticket and can avoid long ticket and will call lines. For the inexperienced market attendee the market can seem very large and a little overwhelming. Take advantage of the online merchant list and maps for a full breakdown of merchant lists, locations and more to help make the most of your time. Make sure to wear a very comfortable pair of shoes as you will be walking A LOT- while fun and festive may seem the way to go, maybe leave the heels at home for this one- your feet will thank you later. 
Once you are there: 
As a few good spirits can help to lift the spirit go ahead and head to one of the cash bars upon entry- lines can be pretty lengthy and a drink or two will hush out any buyers remorse that may be experienced. Keep in mind to have plenty of cash on hand as not all of the vendors will accept cards. Cash can also help ensure that you stay within your budget and gives a little of wiggle room to help haggle a deal down. If you find yourself purchasing a lot of bigger ticket items we recommend using the :package pick-up" which allows, for only $5.00, to pick up your items at the end after they have been checked for you. 
But most importantly: 
Have fun! 
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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the HRIS.
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