Global crafts, baking, and an old-fashioned tea make Christmas a ton of fun

One of the things I love about this time of year is the multitude of Christmas related events sponsored bya variety of groups, including non-profit organizations. They feature funky gifts as well as opportunities to socialize with friends and neighbors and meet new peeps. Here are some suggestions:

The Fair Trade Global Craft Fair is an event unlike any other. It’s a chance to browse through a host of fun, environmentally sustainable gift ideas from around the world. Beaded jewellry, journals, brightly colored textiles, handcrafted wooden carvings, musical instruments, and food are just some of the items on offer. Coffee, snacks, and lunch will be provided by students involved in the International Co-op Program. See you at Timberline this Saturday, November 28 from 10:00am until 4:00pm. Give Brenda a call at 250-287-8198 if you need more information.

The Sportsplex in Willow Point is where the Toy and Craft Show is happening this weekend, Saturday, N0vember 28 and Sunday, November 29 from 10am to 4:00pm both days. Call Parks, Recreation and Culture at 250-286-1161 with your questions.

 This weekend is a popular time for Christmas events. Step back in time to the Victorian era with the Order of the Eastern Star, Chas Maria Chapter, for their Candlelight Tea at the Masonic Hall at 2:00pm.  There will be home baking and door prizes. The Masonic Hall is just over the bridge at 2905 North Island Highway. Cost is a modest $10 for dainty sandwiches and tea served in a fine bone china tea cup. Wear a hat and gloves and get into the spirit of an old-fashioned Christmas. Monies raised support Eastern Star’s cancer projects.

And coming up early in December -

Homemade baking and crafts are the focus for the SPCA Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 5 at Campbell River common. Check it out between 9:30am and 5:30pm. Crafts can be dropped off at the shelter on Merecroft Road. Due to the lack of space at the shelter, please drop off your baking on the morning of the event at Campbell River Common. For further info call the shelter at 250-286-6131.

Order of the Eastern Star’s book sale enormous success

The hard work of many volunteers has paid off for the local chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. Their recent book sale, held over three days earlier this month, raised $2,359.00. What an impressive amount when you realize the most expensive books were only two dollars each!

Used Book Sale Convenors Valerie and Ev send a special thank you to Dr. Larry Chen for donating the space on Shopper’s Row for this event and to the people of Campbell River for their donations and support.

Let Eastern Star ready your reading for fall

It would appear the rain, wind and cooler weather has arrived. The five day extended forecast is for a Campbell River-typical fall so haul our your umbrella and boots (and maybe even your duck feet).

Despite the gloominess, one of my favorite events starts tomorrow and will certainly brighten my week: the annual used book sale sponsored by the local chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star. The selection is broad – from a variety of fiction to non-fiction with kid’s books too. There’s an exciting selection and it’s sure to satisfy the rabid readers in Campbell River.

Funds raised go to towards fighting cancer.

Please note: the location has changed. The sale is no longer happening at Campbell River Common but on Shopper’s Row, in the former location of Inner Odyssey, beside San Marcos.

The bibliophile can browse for three consecutive days starting tomorrow, Thursday, October 15 from 10am to 5pm. On Friday, October 16, hours are 10am to 6pm. They’re  back to 10am to 4pm on the final day, Saturday October 17th.