Many churches are hosting holiday bazaars and craft shows in the days leading up to Christmas — showcasing the baking, preserving and craft skills of members and local artisans, and raising money for their churches and charities.
At Churchill United Church in Innisfil, the annual Craft Show and Bazaar last Saturday featured homemade pies and breads — “Lots of cherry pies!” said Lyn Rutledge — hand-knit scarves and crocheted hats, and the woodcarvings of Howard Greenaway.
There were also many other vendors, a White Elephant table, silent auction, and a sale of nativity scenes and creches, and shoppers could enjoy refreshments and fellowship in the team room.
As well, there was an element of outreach: visitors were asked to donate a new pair of mitts or gloves for those in need this winter. In return, they received a ballot in a draw for a gift basket.
More Christmas bazaars and craft shows coming up:
Christmas Bazaar and Sale at Bradford Valley Care Community, Nov. 24, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. A fundraiser for the residents’ programs at the long-term care centre, located at 2656 Line 6, BWG.
Lefroy United Church Christmas Bazaar and Sale. Crafters, Penny Table, bake table, arts and crafts, and a homemade lunch with apple cider, Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church in Lefroy, Innisfil. All welcome.
Second annual Festive Winter Craft Fair at Bradford District High School, on Professor Day Drive. A fundraiser for the school Nov. 24 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Admission is free.
Christmas Bazaar and Craft Show at Lakeside Retirement in Alcona, 985 Innisfil Beach Rd., on Nov. 24, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission, and there will be door prizes.
Jingle Bell Christmas Market at the Newmarket Community Centre, 200 Doug Duncan Dr. on Nov. 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Vendors specializing in direct sales, plus local artisans. Admission is free, but the event supports the Childhood Cancer Canada Foundation.
St. Angela Merici Catholic School Christmas Bazaar and Silent Auction, 109 West Park Ave.., raises funds for the school’s technology and recreation initiatives. Friday, Nov. 30, from 6:30-9 p.m. There will be a silent auction, Christmas crafts, photos with Santa, and an array of vendors. Admission is $2, or a donation of non-perishable food for the Helping Hand Food Bank.
A note: In addition to the bazaar and silent auction, the elementary school is also hosting a poinsettia sale, with poinsettias provided by Bradford Greenhouses Garden Gallery, and a sale of 24-inch ‘grinch trees’ for $35 each. Orders start Nov. 5. Pick up on Nov. 29, or on Nov. 30 at the bazaar.
Bond Head Lions fourth annual Arts and Crafts Sale takes place Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bond Head Community Hall, 2892 County Rd. 27. More than 40 vendors, with home baking, knitting, sewing, quilting, jewellery, decorations, turned-wood bowls, soaps and lotions, and much more. Admission is free. Food available from the Lions.
Bradford Legion's Craft and Bake Sale. Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall, at 115 Back St. in Bradford. Crafts and vendors. Lunch will be available.
