Following the Country Christmas theme for the Holiday Lighted Parade, the group is hosting a Country Art Market.

The show will open Friday, Dec. 1 from 5-7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They also plan to be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 9 and 16.

Approximately 12 artists will be displaying oil painting, water color, quilling, wood carving, and stained glass. Painted horseshoes, rocks and pottery will also be available. Most items will be for sale. Live demonstrations on different types of art will happen throughout the open hours.

In addition, there will be door prizes. Visitors also have the opportunity to vote for the window display that is a part of the Main Street Beatrice competition. Refreshments and treat bags will also be available.

Winnie Woods said last year’s event was wonderful.

“Last year there were all kinds of tables and displays set up,” she said. “It is kind of exciting because people can come in and look. No one has to buy and they can come in for free and see what we’ve been doing all year.”

The group was founded in 1965 and currently has a membership of about 37 artists.

Roselyn Shaffer said members are from communities throughout Southeast Nebraska and beyond.

“We have members from Beatrice and the surrounding area,” she said. “We even have one member from Alaska.”

Erna Beach was one of founding members. She said it’s been fun.

“Art is better than chasing cars and staying in bars,” she joked. “It is proven that artists live longer and are healthier. It helps with emotions and it’s just fun.”

Members have also joined Association of Nebraska Art Club. Nebraska is the only state that offers this type of association. They meet once a year offering a variety of workshops.

“Oh my goodness, we’ve had some incredible artists give instruction,” Beach said.

Classes for both youth and adults are offered by the Beatrice Area Arts Guild. Deb Monfelt has classes planned for January.

Monfelt is also a member of Impact which has an art display at the Beatrice Public Library through the end of December.

Shaffer said they just want people to come and enjoy the art.