If you are looking to get into the holiday spirit and do a little shopping, the Cochrane Lioness are kicking off the Christmas market season this weekend.

Last year, Cochrane saw a record number of Christmas themed markets held at various venues across town allowing shoppers to look for unique, crafted, or specialty items while supporting local artisans and small businesses.

Lioness Meghan Maclean is excited that the service group is kicking off the holiday season and says the 52 vendors will have something for everyone. "We have everything from homemade ornaments, stockings, bath bombs, beauty products, Pampered Chef is coming. Lots of different opportunities. I feel like this is the first Christmas market for Cochrane and we're totally excited to kick off Christmas shopping for everyone in town."

Besides shopping, Santa will be making a surprise stop along with carolling by the Cochrane Youth Singers. The Lioness Cafe will serve up soup and sandwiches all day long and a charity bake sale will also take place.

Over 20 ladies are committed to putting on great community events and giving back. The Lionesses will support some families in need this holiday season as well as give Christmas bags to seniors and veterans.

The Lioness market is being held this Saturday (November 18) from 10 am to 3 pm at the Lions Event Centre. A $2 admission will be charged which goes directly back to the Cochrane community.