If there is one event that heralds the holidays, it is Mistletoe & Moss.

This Southwest Louisiana tradition for more than 30 years is the major fundraising event for the Junior League of Lake Charles, an organization of women who have been serving, strengthening and sustaining the community for 90 years.

The three-day market kicks off Friday at the Lake Charles Event Center and runs through Sunday.

Almost 100 merchants and food vendors will offer the gifts that are sure to make friends, family and loved ones feel special, and the fuel to keep shoppers going.

Expect a different layout this year, a circle rather than isles will give the crowd more room to browse while allowing room for more merchants this year, said Amelia Washington, Junior League spokesperson.

“Our entrance is different too,” Washington said. “It’s a wider walk-in area.”

Washington has been a Leaguer for six years and she shops the Market because it’s the place to find things not found on the internet or in most retail chains.

“I like to find something different, a gift that really suits the person and shows I put some thought into it instead of just picking up a trinket.”

General Admission is $15 at the door. Children 8 and younger get in free. On Friday, general admission hours are 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday hours are 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

Shop crowd free

For those who want to be the first to shop the Market before it opens to the general admission public on Friday, a Premier Shopping ticket can be purchased for $25. It includes a goodie bag, champagne and a charcuterie cup. The ticket includes shopping from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. and beyond the special event hours.

Yes! Sip & Shop is back by popular demand and set for 6-9 p.m. Friday. Hear holiday music by Mark Portier Trio and purchase signature cocktails. Tickets include shopping before and during the special event hours and two drink tickets.

Santa Claus is coming to town

Santa’s Workshop tickets can be purchased in combination for adult and child for $45 or as a single ticket for $25. Children under 2 admitted free. The jolly guy will be in his workshop at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Saturday and at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Kids can create holiday crafts with the Children’s Museum of Southwest Louisiana, decorate cookies, write a letter to Santa, and of course, they can meet Santa and take a picture with him and Mrs. Clause.

Purchase $15 worth of Merchant Bucks at the Junior League booth to receive $25.