The Christmas season is right around the corner, and if you want to get your shopping done early, there are several great events you can attend where locally made items are the main attraction. Shopping local not only helps support your friends and neighbors through employment and prosperity, but when dollars stay local, schools, nonprofits and those most in need see a direct benefit as well. There are all kinds of creative crafters, metal workers and artists in the area, and you’ll find their works on display during a month packed with showcases.
Bonners Ferry Farmers Market’s Holiday Market
While the Farmers Market is closed for the season, the events don’t end. Swing into Bonners Ferry Middle School on Saturday, November 17 for the annual Holiday Market. Organizer and longtime market vendor Judy Miller says the sale is just as much about the camaraderie as the actual selling. “[It’s about] the community, visiting as we haven't seen each other since the market closed for the season and seeing all the pretty crafts and the happy holiday shoppers,” she said.
Vendors will be set up in the school cafeteria from 9am to 3pm. You’ll find a wide range of offerings. Foods like honey, winter squash and other vegetables, flour, jams and jellies will all be on hand. Others will be featuring handmade furniture, jewelry and photography, knits and décor, pottery and so much more. There will be a few demonstrations as well.
St. Ann’s Catholic Church Holiday Sale
The newly completed St. Ann’s Church welcomes back one of the area’s favorite local sales after a few seasons off while under construction. The two-day sale will be held at the church on Friday, November 16, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, November 17, 9am to 2pm. There are still table spaces available for $25 each or two for $40. You can contact Tammy at 208.610.2424 to reserve your placement. Lunch will be served each day, and there will also be delicious pies on hand for purchase.
The Vintage Christmas Market
Now in its 10th year, the Vintage Christmas Market is another local favorite stop the weekend before Thanksgiving. Doors will open up on Friday and Saturday at the fairgrounds, and shoppers will have dozens of booths and vendors to meander through. Warm food and drinks will help you stay fueled as you wander about. Antiques are the showcase here with one-of-a-kind outdoor and holiday decorations, repurposed goods and furnishings brought back to life. Handmade wreaths and garland are also hugely popular items.
Kootenai Valley Mennonite Church Bake Sale
At this sale, local handmade crafts and baked goods are all donated, and all sale proceeds go to the Kootenai Valley Christian School. Doors open at 8am on Saturday, November 17, and things will wind down around 4pm. There will be fresh cider and donuts, soup, rolls, breads, pies and even barbecue ribs and brisket. Get there early as the food goes fast!