Leading the League

Join The Junior League of Texarkana, Inc. for a Spectacular Holiday Celebration!
By Alissa Flanagan

Join The Junior League of Texarkana, Inc. for a magical weekend of sugarplum dreams at this year’s enchanting Mistletoe Market. The 37th annual holiday market, themed “Night at the Nutcracker,” will take place November 22–24, 2024, at the Holiday Inn Texarkana Arkansas Convention Center. This cherished holiday tradition is not just an opportunity to shop for unique gifts—it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact in the local community!

photo by shane darby.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Since its founding in 1926, The Junior League of Texarkana, Inc. (JLT) has dedicated itself to fostering voluntarism, empowering women, and enhancing the quality of life in the community through action and leadership. JLT plays a vital role in developing programs that support education, health, and the arts in Texarkana, providing notable initiatives like the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council (TRAHC), Hospice of Texarkana, Texarkana Symphony Orchestra, and the Discovery Place Children’s Museum—to name just a few.

Membership volunteers delivering a check to We Are Washington. submitted photo.

Aligned with the current focus on “Children: Literacy, Hunger, and Poverty,” the League proudly supports several impactful community projects, including:

Open Hearts Food Pantry: Addressing food insecurity among middle school students, JLT provides funding and volunteer hours to Harvest Regional Food Bank’s weekend food assistance program to ensure no child goes hungry.

Packs for a Purpose: JLT aims to create dignity and stability for children entering foster care by filling backpacks with essential items, school supplies, and comfort items—replacing trash bags with hope and care.

Membership volunteers at Packs for a Purpose. submitted photo.

Shoes for the Soul & Clothes for a Cause: JLT members shop for new shoes and clothing with children in need, helping them feel confident and cared for. This initiative provides essential items twice a year, making a world of difference in their lives.

Teacher Take Wing: Through this initiative, $10,000 in educational grants are awarded to innovative teachers in the local community, enabling them to bring their creative classroom projects to life. Each year, JLT members review applications from local educators to support the next generation of learners.

Membership volunteers packing trucks for Hurricane Helene relief. submitted photo.

Through these initiatives and the Community Assistance Fund, JLT will contribute more than $34,000, dedicate nearly 2,500 volunteer hours, and clothe over 120 children this fiscal year. This impact is made possible by the dedication of JLT’s trained volunteers and the generous financial support of community sponsors.

Membership volunteers at Shoes for the Soul. submitted photo.

The ongoing inequities faced by women and children in the Four States region highlight the importance of committed and trained volunteer leaders. JLT invests over $16,000 annually in training its volunteers to effectively serve the community and develop future leaders. Together with committed agency partnerships, the League strives to empower women and children, regardless of their circumstances. As part of an international network of 295 Leagues with over 125,000 women, JLT has the knowledge and resources to drive real change in communities.

Front Row: Katelyn Jordan, Madison Colbert, Meghan Hadaway, Jade Harris, Morgan Morris, Jennifer Bryan; Middle Row: Jordan High, Morgan Raffray, Alissa Flanagan, Holly Swecker, Racheal Cuellar; Back Row: Victoria Porter, Johndrea Tatum, Kirklan Capps. Special thanks to Four Fifteen Estates for providing the photo venue. photo by shane darby.

Why Mistletoe Market Matters

The Mistletoe Market is JLT’s primary fundraiser and a beloved Texarkana tradition for more than 35 years! It’s more than just a shopping event; it’s a celebration that kicks off the holiday season while generating essential funds for community action projects. The 2024 Mistletoe Market committee has worked diligently to craft an unforgettable holiday experience that honors JLT’s storied history while incorporating fresh, exciting elements.

Join in on the fun!

Get ready for an extraordinary experience with a spectacular lineup of events, kicking off with Mistletoe and Mimosas on Friday, November 22, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.! For just $50, indulge in refreshing mimosas and a delectable brunch catered by Benchmark, all while enjoying live music from the talented Texas High School Jazz Band. But that’s not all—one lucky attendee will have the chance to win a fabulous Louis Vuitton High Rise bumbag, generously donated by Dr. Randy Ellis, Dr. Alexandria Oliver, and Dr. Hayden Ellis, of Ellis Family Dentistry! Will it be you? Don’t miss out—secure your tickets today! They’re only $20 each or three for $50. Purchase now at jltexarkana.org or simply scan the QR code below. Following brunch, the market opens for general shopping hours from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature live performances from additional school groups, as well as a food court with unique offerings from local food trucks.

The fun continues Friday evening at 7 p.m. with the exclusive Jingle and Mingle party. Admission is $60 and includes entrance to the market, a delicious meal provided by Silver Star, beer and wine selections, access to a cash bar, and fabulous entertainment from The Left Hooks. Plus, attendees will have the chance to participate in a silent auction! And don’t forget about the thrilling benefit drawing, where one lucky winner will choose from:

An all-inclusive, 4-night getaway to Hyatt Ziva or Zilara in the Dominican Republic

3 nights in Monterey, California, featuring an unforgettable experience at Spanish Bay + Del Monte golf course

a relaxing, 3-weekday escape to Northern California Wine Country with chauffeured Sedan service, VIP dinner, and private wine tastings/winery tour

Additionally, each vacation package includes flights for two individuals. Benefit drawing tickets are $50 each with only 200 tickets available.

General shopping hours are set for Saturday, November 23rd, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, November 24th, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to shopping, enjoy performances by local music and dance groups, indulge in food trucks, and participate in special children’s events throughout both days!

Following Santa’s much-anticipated arrival at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday, children can enjoy a delightful breakfast or brunch with Santa, Storytime with Mrs. Claus, and our newest event—the Sugar Plum Fairy Brunch. On Sunday, November 24th, additional photographed opportunities with Santa will be available, as well as one last chance for Storytime with Mrs. Claus. Tickets for the children’s events are $30 each and include breakfast or brunch, storytime, and a photograph with Santa. General shoppers can also purchase a photograph with Santa for $10. Of course, furry friends are also welcome for photographs with Santa, on Sunday at 3:15 p.m. Tickets for the children’s events are limited, so be sure to purchase early before they sell out!

Don’t miss out on this festive opportunity to shop, celebrate, and create lasting memories with family and friends at the 2024 Mistletoe Market! One-day general admission passes are $10, and weekend passes are available for $15. Purchase event passes at jltexarkana.org.

Together, let’s make this holiday season special while supporting vital community initiatives. The Junior League of Texarkana, Inc. can’t wait to see you there!