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Scandinavian Bazaar in Cookstown famous for its baking (5 photos)

'Tis the season for Church Bazaars and craft sales

The annual Scandinavian Bazaar at the Laestadian Lutheran Church in Cookstown is a long-standing tradition. The two-day event offers an array of Scandinavian crafts, seasonal music in the sanctuary, and wonderful traditional home-baking, prepared by the congregation.

Visitors come from as far away as Toronto to purchase the Pulla bread -  a sweet bread made with Cardamom - sour rye breads, cinnamon buns, gingersnaps and other treats that fill the tables in the church hall, and to enjoy dinner in the café on Friday evening, and a brunch on Saturday morning.

This weekend marked the 15th annual Scandinavian Bazaar. One volunteer noted that the bazaar “is great for the congregation, and brings everyone together,” especially the church’s young people, who volunteer at the event.

And by the time the bazaar closed its doors, shortly after noon on Saturday, nearly all of the baked goods and traditional treats had been sold.

Coming up: 

Bradford United Church Christmas Bazaar. On Saturday, Nov. 16, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bradford United Church Women will be hosting their annual Christmas Bazaar at the Church, 66 Barrie Street in Bradford. The bazaar features local artisans, a giant bake sale, silent auction, and a homemade lunch with a choice of soup for only $12. Come out and do some early Christmas shopping!

Artisan Show, at the Tec-We-Gwill Women’s Institute Hall in Newton Robinson, Line 10 BWG and County Rd. 27, on Saturday, Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. At least 12 artists and artisans from the Newton Robinson-Bond Head area – including Denis Bolohan, Bruce Chambers and Meade Helman - will display and sell their work at the Newton Robinson Hall. Cash or cheque only please. The Tec-We-Gwill Women’s institute will have home baking, food and drinks available for purchase; there will also be a children’s gift table, and Children’s Activity Table. Free admission.

Churchill United Church Christmas Tea, Craft and Bake Sale. Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Churchill United Church, located at 6306 Yonge St. in Innisfil, hosts a Christmas Tea, Craft and Bake sale. Great crafts, huge bake table, and a tasty lunch. Donate new socks or mitts for a ballot on a draw for a great gift basket. All welcome. For more information, contact Vicky at 705-456-1562.

St. Angela Merici Annual Christmas Bazaar. The second annual Christmas Bazaar takes place Fri., Nov. 22 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at St. Angela Merici Catholic Elementary School in Bradford. Entrance is $2, or a non-perishable foot item for the Helping Hand Food Bank. Vendor space available on a first-come, first served basis. Contact the school.

Winter Craft Fair. The Third Annual Festive Winter Craft Fair takes place at Bradford District High School on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Discover a spectacular mix of crafters offering a great range of unique and hand-made items. Admission is free. Vendors interested in a booth should contact Dan Boucher at 416-577-1455, or email [email protected]. BDHS is located at 70 Professor Day Drive in Bradford.

Bradford Valley Community Care Christmas Bazaar. The Bazaar takes place Saturday, Nov. 23 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with over 25 vendors signed up for the event at Bradford Valley, 2656 Line 6 in Bradford. Table rental fees go to the residents’ council, to help pay for items, activities and outings as chosen by the residents of Bradford Valley. Crafts, Arts, Health Produces, Baking and household items. Free parking.

Bond Head Lions 5th Annual Christmas Arts and Crafts Sale. The Bond Head Lions host another Christmas Arts and Crafts Sale at the Bond Head Community Hall on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Table rentals only $25; interested vendors should contact 705-458-9576 or 705-458-4511 as soon as possible to reserve.