CAMBRIDGE - This holiday season, Dorchester Center for the Arts will jump-start the spirit of gift giving with the new “Merry Market,” transforming the entire art gallery into a whimsical shopping experience. This juried event will feature original work from artists and artisans displaying a wide variety of hand-crafted creations including traditional arts, jewelry, candles, paintings, woodworking, weavings and more.

Second Saturday receptions will be held Nov. 12 and Dec. 10, from 5-7 p.m., with festive refreshments and live music; each one a welcome opportunity to meet artists and craftspeople who create unique art and gifts.

As of press date, participating artists and artisans include Kayla Allen, Patricia Aquilina, Jane Cross, Nora Drayton, Jo Ebling, Joyce Fritz-Ritz, Jennifer Hartfield, Aubree Lopez, Heather Nate-Collins, Madonna Green Parker, Bill Pavan, Nikki Reynolds, Juana Soto, Sheryl Southwick, Dori Weber and more.

The Merry Market continues in the galleries through Dec. 23. Gallery hours are Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, noon to 8 p.m. This season, give the gift of art to the special someones on your list – and to yourself!

Dorchester Center for the Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching Maryland’s Eastern Shore community through high quality, engaging programming in the visual, literary and performing arts. As the designated County Arts Council for Dorchester County, DCA is committed to supporting and uplifting local artists, and increasing access to the arts for all community members by supporting extensive outreach and educational opportunities in the arts.

For more information about the Merry Market, and additional programs and events at the Dorchester Center for the Arts, stop by 321 High St., call 410-228-7782 or visit online at dorchesterarts.org. Find DCA on Facebook. Programs at DCA are supported by the Maryland State Arts Council.