(New Orleans)— Local open-air market organizers marketumbrella.org, part of Loyola University’s Twomey Center, kick-off the holiday season in December with three Sundays of the holiday fair trade/recycled festival, “Festivus.” Held at 700 Magazine Street, home of the Crescent City Farmers Market, the event features local artists, gift-wrapping, food, and music, on December 3, 10, and 17, from noon to 4 p.m.

“I hope everyone will find time to visit the Office of Homeland Serenity during Festivus,” says Festivus organizer Darlene Wolnik. “We will have free massages, a place to add your grievances, a re-gifting station to leave those not-for-you items from last year, and flattery with the Big Easy Rollergirls. This year, we have added ‘Learn a New Skill Corner,’ which will feature different people offering hands-on training of fun and useful skills, like fixing a bicycle tire and making balloon animals. Also, in the spirit of promoting ecological awareness, local non-profit Metro Bicycle Coalition will be giving away free bicycle survival kits to those who cycle to Festivus the first week.”

Hot food will be provided by Savvy Gourmet, Crepes a la Cart, and La Spiga Bakery.

Festivus was organized around the principles of fair trade, reusing materials and local skills and talents. Over 40 vendors will set up in the parking lot, and in case of inclement weather, the event will move inside the attached garage.

For more information, call 504-861-5898 or email festivus@marketumbrella.org