On The Yard

As we savor the holiday season again, the U.S. Naval Academy prepares to welcome a cherished annual tradition back to the Yard - the 9th Annual Brigade Holiday Market! This festive event, set to take place in historic Dahlgren Hall on December 10, 2024, is a must-attend for anyone looking to kick-start their holiday shopping in a unique, community-centered atmosphere. Open to midshipmen, faculty, staff, sponsor families, and the public, this event is all about spreading cheer and camaraderie while supporting local vendors and the Brigade.

A Festive Tradition With a Cause

The Brigade Holiday Market isn't your average holiday market. It’s an opportunity for the USNA community to come together, celebrate the holiday season, and shop small businesses and local artisans who bring their best to Annapolis. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Dahlgren Hall will transform into a winter wonderland, filled with festive decor, music, and a variety of goods for sale. With everything from handcrafted jewelry and art to bath and beauty items, there's something for everyone.

For the midshipmen, who dedicate their days to rigorous academics and military training, this event offers a delightful break and a chance to enjoy the season’s festivities. It’s a perfect setting for the USNA community - midshipmen, faculty, and sponsor families - to gather and share in the joy of the holidays.

Related: Midshipmen Make Spirits Bright

Shopping With Heart and Purpose

With 80 vendors setting up shop in Dahlgren Hall, this holiday market offers a diverse selection of gifts. If you're on the hunt for something special for friends and family, you’ll have a variety of options to choose from:

• Jewelry, Art, and Ceramics: Adorn yourself or your loved ones with beautiful, handcrafted jewelry, or pick up a one-of-a-kind art piece sure to be a conversation starter. Ceramics and pottery items add a unique touch to any home decor and make wonderful, thoughtful gifts.
• Bath and Beauty Products: Indulge in luxurious bath and beauty products crafted by local artisans. From soothing soaps to refreshing lotions, these items offer the perfect self-care essentials for the holiday season.
• Woodworking and Homegoods: If you're looking for something rustic or hand-carved, the woodworking and homegoods section will be filled with treasures. These items often reflect the skill and passion of the artisans, making them ideal gifts with a personal touch.
• Children's Items and Pet Products: Don’t forget the kids or pets! Vendors offer a range of products just for them, including toys, clothing, and accessories for the little ones and furry friends.
• Navy / Marine Corps Gear: Of course, no USNA holiday market would be complete without Navy and Marine Corps apparel, gear, and swag. Perfect for showing off your support or finding gifts for the proud service members and veterans in your life, these items carry the spirit of the USNA and the pride of our armed forces. They also give directly back to the midshipmen to support extracurricular activities like cultural arts, music, theater, club sports, and more.

A Place for Community Connection

Beyond shopping, the USNA Holiday Market is a place to gather, connect, and appreciate the spirit of community the Academy fosters. Midshipmen, faculty, sponsor families, and visitors alike share in the joy of the season and the unique camaraderie that defines the USNA experience. As you browse through booths filled with holiday goods, you'll feel the warmth and gratitude that permeate the Academy grounds. For many, the holiday market is a reminder of the dedication and sacrifice midshipmen make. Supporting them by attending this event, whether through purchases or simply by joining the festivities, shows appreciation for those who uphold our freedom. Proceeds from the event make every purchase a gesture of thanks and encouragement.

Related: Holiday Happenings Around the Yard

Make This Holiday Market a Highlight of Your Season

If you’re in the Annapolis area, make December 10th a day to remember! Come to Dahlgren Hall from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and discover why the Brigade Holiday Market has become a beloved holiday tradition at the USNA. Bring friends, family or simply your holiday spirit, and experience firsthand the charm, warmth, and sense of unity that make this holiday market truly special. Whether you're a USNA family member, a local resident, or simply a fan of holiday markets, the USNA Holiday Market is the perfect place to shop, celebrate, and connect this holiday season.