A Friday evening gala leads into two days of shopping at the former Rome Art and Community Center.
By David Laguerre
Holiday House returns to the Carpenter Center in November with an opening-night gala and a weekend market featuring more than 40 local vendors, according to the organizer.
The center, formerly known as Rome Art and Community Center, is at 308 W. Bloomfield St. The 2026 theme is Christmas Around the World. Visitors will be able to shop inside the decorated Carpenter House.
Opening night: Nov. 13
The gala is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 13, from 6 to 9 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. The evening includes wine, hors d’oeuvres and holiday shopping.
One ticket costs $30. When buying two or more, the listed price is $25 per ticket. The organizer links to advance ticket sales from its event page. Availability and any checkout fees should be checked before making plans.
Market days: Nov. 14 and 15
The first market weekend runs Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14–15, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST each day. Admission is $5, with tickets sold at the door. Purchases from vendors are separate from admission.
The market offers an option for people who want to browse without attending the evening gala. The organizer also lists a second market weekend, Nov. 21–22, with the same hours.
A new wrapping service
New this year, Palm Twig will provide gift-wrapping services to benefit the Rome Health Foundation, according to the center. Its listing does not specify a wrapping price or promise that the service is included with admission.
Readers should use the center’s current name when checking details: The Carpenter Center. Its former website directs visitors to the new site.
Plan your visit
Review the official gala listing and market schedule before leaving for changes or ticket information.
Featured image: AI-generated conceptual illustration by OpenAI for Mohawk Valley Voice. It does not depict the actual event, venue or participants.