KENT, Conn. — The Christmas season is officially here. You know it must have started because St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is holding its ever-popular Christmas Bazaar tomorrow (Saturday), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in the parish hall.
The church’s annual Christmas tree sale will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The parish hall is filled with holiday-themed items, all in pristine condition. Bright baubles fill baskets, ready to decorate tree or table, displays of figurines are lined up and linens, pillows, wreaths and more are all tastefully presented.
In one corner, is a section dedicated to Golden Treasures. “In this section, you can find a nice little piece of sterling silver. You can wrap it up and give it to someone—and we’ll never tell,” said Marel Rogers insouciantly.
Rogers is termed “chief elf,” by her co-workers and is coordinator of the event.
The table’s offerings go well past silver, however. A large selection of Lenox “Holiday” china can be purchased en masse or individually. And for younger customers who do not like handwashing fine china, there are more durable, dishwasher safe selections.
“There’s something about setting your holiday table with beautiful pieces,” said Rogers. “You just step back and say, ‘Yes!’”
Next to the Gold Treasures table is a long section where baked goods, preserves and the like will be sold. “It’s all about food,” exclaimed Rogers. “You can pick up your Thanksgiving pie and there’s no fuss.”
In another corner is a little café where shoppers can enjoy chili and other comfort foods for lunch. The café seats 10, but Rogers says many customers enjoy “grab and go” meals.
The tables in the fourth corner of the room were covered with cloths before the sale. “Those tables are shrouded in mystery,” Rogers quipped. “That’s the jewelry section.”
All items are “marked to sell,” said the head elf.
In addition to items for sale, there will be a raffle. “Most of them are gift cards that don’t display particularly well,” said Rogers, as she circled the table before stopping by one large and handsome picnic basket filled with glasses, plates and other items appropriate “for a trip to Tanglewood.”
Also to be raffled off is a quilt by Kathy Fricker, baskets of wines, and a basket from BD Provisions of New Milford. Gift certificates have been donated by local restaurants, Kent Greenhouse, Sundog Shoes, House of Books and others.
Raffle tickets start at $1 for a single ticket and range up to $20 for 25.
The “elves” assembling the displays have to be quick. “Most of this stuff comes in this week because we can’t set up the hall until after the Veterans Day luncheon,” said Sue Edgerly.
Over in St. Andrew’s sanctuary, the works of the talented Kent Quilters will be on display for lovers of textile arts.
And outside, the Christmas trees for this year’s sale stand ready. The tree selection this year includes 6- to 8-foot tall Balsam and Fraser firs and 7- to 9-foot Balsams. All are priced at $85 each. Cash and checks are accepted.
This weekend they will be sold Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. After Thanksgiving, trees will be sold from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday afternoons; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.
