HOUSTON – The Houston Ballet Nutcracker Market is back with the bells! The four-day event kicked off Thursday at the NRG Center for the celebration of its 40th anniversary.

This is shopaholic’s paradise and this year did not disappoint.

“We have a motorhome and we were spinning into the parking lot. Oh yeah, that’s a big deal,” said Jennifer Trevino of Houston.

She and her friends have attended every year since 2004.

“It’s great, it’s great to have a little bit of normalcy,” said Trevino. “It really looks like Christmas.”

The 2021 event may look a little different to buyers.

Several suppliers say they have kept up with the demand from the supply chain.

Lisa Ubinger, of Catalina Originals, says the national crisis has limited some of her merchandise.

“It’s really difficult for us because we are preparing for certain collections, certain styles and we just don’t understand,” said Ubinger. “It’s difficult for us, but especially for the people who shop. We have limited sizes, things they are specifically looking for, we don’t have.”

Trevino and his group didn’t let that stop their excitement.

They showed KHOU 11 some of the must-see stops on their list.

Starting with “All about the dips”.

“Hot Tomato. We’re sold on the Hot Tomato,” Trevino said.

Next on their list, freshly made caramel nuts.

Not a box but “Okay three,” laughed Trevino.

After doing all of their tours, the last stop was the Houston Ballet’s Nutcracker booth.

“I get this every year. I get a nutcracker every year. So this year I fell in love with this one, with the little mouse the trees, ”said Trevino.

All proceeds from the event go to the Houston Ballet.

The event at the NRG center runs until Sunday.

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