It’s once again time for the Old-Fashioned Holiday Bazaar at the Landmark Center, a favorite holiday tradition in Saint Paul. The thrill of shopping for handmade crafts and Christmas items from local vendors in the beautifully decorated historic building keeps people coming back year after year.
The 38th annual bazaar takes place December 1 to 3; admission is $5. The first and third floors are filled with vendors selling gifts perfect for the holidays. Live entertainment from choirs and musicians such as the Ars Nova Brass Quintet create a cheerfully seasonal atmosphere.
Event coordinator Diane Lewis says the Holiday Bazaar is the best place to shop for friends and family. “If you weren’t in the holiday mood before, it will put you in the mood,” Lewis says.
Some of the items for sale include mittens, hats, handmade cards, ceramics, carved wooden Santas and snowmen, kitchen utensils and bowls, jewelry and paintings. According to Lewis, all 78 vendors have “great products,” but some of her favorites include Harp Stone’s earrings, Jo Anne Schuna’s handcrafted ornaments, Barb Schroder’s hand-cranked socks, Harry Carlson’s old-fashioned Santas, and granola and nuts from the Golden Fig on Grand Avenue.
New artisans this year include Annette Wilson and Christina Heinricks’ jewelry line, pottery by Joan Miller, edible garden art from Jules Rente, nut artwork from Albert Tanko, and lined mittens, hats and scarves and headbands by Jen Anderson.
Don’t miss the raffle with prizes donated from each vendor; you do not need to be present to win.