JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Black Friday isn’t just about big box stores and online deals—it’s also a time to celebrate local businesses.
The Holiday Nerd Market, organized by Ryan Thompson, founder of GAAM Good, invites the Jacksonville community to do just that on Saturday and Sunday from 12-5 p.m.
The Holiday Nerd Market offers a unique shopping experience by bringing together small businesses and local charities.
“It’s about bringing us all together and showing that it takes a village,” Thompson said.
Attendees can support causes like Feeding Northeast Florida and Fostering Connections by donating toys or food items, with prizes offered as an incentive.
Thompson explained that Jacksonville’s nerd culture is distinct because it’s homegrown.
“We don’t have a lot of supporting ecosystems in those companies here,” he said, emphasizing that the community’s strength comes from its grassroots nature.
From gaming to anime and tabletop hobbies, the market is a reflection of the city’s passionate and diverse nerd community.
Local vendors and nerdy treasures
The Holiday Nerd Market features a wide array of vendors, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to boba tea. Notable vendors include Tiki Java Jacks, Darby’s Dungeon—a female-owned tabletop gaming company—and Ferrokinetics, a maker of nerd-themed jewelry. Other vendors will showcase 3D-printed items, art prints, keychains, and even soaps and candles.
“Despite the myth, nerds can smell good too,” Thompson joked.
🔒River City Guide: Entertain the family with these free holiday events in and around Jacksonville
Attendees can also enjoy gaming experiences, including video game sessions for kids and adults.
“We give a prize to not only the person playing, but somebody in the crowd as well,” Thompson shared, adding a playful comparison to the action of Running Man, minus the violence.
How to join the fun
Entry to the Holiday Nerd Market is free, thanks to crowdfunding and community sponsors like Community First. However, tickets are required and are available at HolidayNerdMarket.com. Thompson advised attendees to act fast, as Saturday’s slots were nearly full.
For Thompson, the event isn’t just about shopping; it’s a celebration of the nerd community and its contributions.
“Nerds are some of the coolest people on Earth,” he added.
The Holiday Nerd Market takes place this weekend, providing a family-friendly opportunity to shop local, enjoy games, and support meaningful causes.