Typically this time of year is reflected by the aisle of Wal-Mart that has the discounted  Halloween candy one day and Christmas decorations the next.

The holidays have arrived, and Tymeless Hearts is hosting its second Holiday Bazaar.

Beth Brown, national executive director of Tymeless Hearts, said the event is open to anyone looking to fulfill shopping needs or grab some pictures with Santa from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 22 on the third floor of the Curris Center in the Large Ballroom.

“We have done similar events in the past, but this will only be the second time for the Murray State chapter to raise money this way,” she said. “Our Holiday Bazaar is an event (where attendees can get) pictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves, as well as shop for things at other booths full of fun.”

The event is set up like a community market with a large variety of vendors, ranging from church groups to businesses. 

The vendors will set up in booths to sell products, provide people with services for donations, promote and advertise their businesses and services or give away coupons and free samples.

In previous years, community members set up booths alongside local businesses and handed out free samples of handmade crafts or jewelry.

“There will be several different vendors and other booths set up for shopping,” Brown said. “Gift wrapping will be available as well, CHD (congenital heart defect) awareness jewelry, pictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus and/or elves, and crafts thanks to the Basket Gifts and more.”

The vendors benefit by earning money through selling products or getting their name out in the community, but the Murray State chapter of Tymeless Hearts sees the event as an opportunity to help their own club and the community.

“The student organization benefits from the experience of being involved and helping others,” Brown said.

The money raised from vendor entry fees and obtained through the bake sale will help families struggling with medical bills or basic needs due to heart conditions. This is just one way the event benefits the community.

“There are over 50 Heart families in the local area who are signed up so far to get gifts this Christmas, so they will benefit from the toys donated and money raised,” Brown said. “The entire community benefits from pictures with Santa, Mrs. Claus and elves for only $5 or a donation of a toy for a Heart family. This is an incredibly good deal in comparison to most.”

In addition to the inexpensive holiday photo, the Holiday Bazaar is a one stop shop for holiday goodies.

Brown said Murray State students are especially welcome to shop and support a great cause.

“?It’s a great way for students to get some Christmas shopping done before heading home,” Brown said. “You can get a one of a kind gift for your parents or someone else on your list.”

Story by Hunter Harrell, Staff writer