By Barbara Augsdorfer, editor for the Effingham Herald

The inaugural Rincon Christmas Market was busy with families starting their holiday shopping among the many vendor booths, kids visiting Santa Claus, and a few brave people skating on a synthetic ice rink.

Even Davey from the Ghost Pirates gave it a try.

The Christmas Market at Freedom Park opened at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, just after the conclusion of the 44th Annual Rincon Lions Christmas Parade.

Freedom Park is located off Hwy. 21 at 6755 Prosperity Dr., between Lowe’s and Rincon Chevrolet.

Among the variety of vendors Nov. 30 was Harbug Hairbows of Rincon, and Just Love Coffee Café, who will be opening a Rincon location in mid-2025.

One of the designs offered by Harbug Hairbows is a fluffy green Cindy Lou Who bow.

The Just Love Coffee Café Rincon location is currently under construction at 608 Towne Park Loop behind the new Sucheros.

In addition to cups of lattes, fraps and coffee, the new coffee shop will sell bags of ground artisan coffees where a portion of the proceeds supports nonprofits such as Folds of Honor, Teach For America, American Cancer Society, Brightstone Transitions (young adult mental health), and Roots of Love (Bethany Christian Services – Foster care and adoption support.)

“We were busy all weekend and got a lot of positive feedback,” said Gareth Whitehurst, co-owner of Just Love Coffee Café. “People are really excited we’re coming to Rincon.”

The Christmas Market at Freedom Park is open Wednesdays through Sundays through Dec. 22 – 5-9 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; noon-10 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; and noon-9 p.m. Dec. 23. The public is invited to bring a blanket or lawn chair to watch Christmas movies Dec. 23. Parking and admission to the Christmas Market are free. Skating admission is $15/adults and $12/kids aged 12 and under and includes skate rental for one hour of skating.