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Boreal Community Media

Local artist and small business Holiday Market returns with 2023 Up on the Yonder to huge success

Nov 22, 2023 10:32AM ● By Content Editor
All photos by Laura Durenberger-Grunow

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - November 22, 2023


Grand Marais store The Big Lake hosted the beloved Holiday Market event on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at Up Yonder. Previously held on a weeknight in years past, the Saturday event proved to be a huge success for all involved, with many vendors selling out of a number of items during the six-hour event.

Abby Tofte, The Big Lake store owner, told Boreal Community Media "The turnout way surpassed my wildest dreams for this year’s event. It was such a successful, busy, and fun day." 

Over 15 vendors were represented and organized throughout the entire bar/restaurant, which was aptly decorated, including a massive 10+ ft Christmas tree. Holiday music played throughout as shoppers enjoyed creations from local artists, shops, and makers. After shopping, attendees could enjoy a drink or some food at the bar. 

Tofte shared that she heard from many folks who "C
ame to the event by recommendation of their hotel or the restaurant they had just eaten at." North House Folk School had flyers up during their annual Winterers' Gathering weekend event as well. 

"I am so grateful for the collaborative and supportive business community here in Cook County. We carry while we climb, and it shows," she said.


Vendors represented at the 2023 Up on the Yonder event: 
  • Britt Malec Painting
  • Cedar Sweets
  • Dappled Fern 
  • Kari Carter Ceramics
  • Lady Superior Bottle Shop & Lydia "Nibs" Noble
  • Natalie Sobanja Ceramics
  • North Road Knits, Jamie Rexx
  • Sarah Reller
  • Scents from Nature, 100% Pure Beeswax Candles, Linda Newman
  • Serenity Pines Creations, Terry Lord-Lewis
  • Shook Smoothies
  • The Big Lake
  • The Fisherman's Daughter
  • The North Country
  • The Sweetwater Co.
  • Up Yonder


The event brought in tons of locals and visitors who were eager to shop from local artists, crafters, makers, and shops


 Up Yonder was filled with shoppers and vendors for the 2023 Up on the Yonder Holiday Market, hosted by The Big Lake


 Shoppers enjoy a drink and food while socializing



Boreal Ship Spotter - larger view here