Christmas craft and food fair kicks off this weekend

The deCoste Performing Arts Centre is hosting its annual Christmas at the deCoste Craft and Food Fair this coming weekend.

The event runs Saturday, Nov. 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 18, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to the event being a great way for people to get out for a social afternoon and get started on Christmas shopping and planning, it’s also a major fundraiser for the not-for-profit venue.

While funds raised will help with bringing in major acts, it will also assist with any major renovations required.

The deCoste will host more than 30 talented vendors providing unique items for visitors to the event.

“It won’t be hard for individuals to find something that will become a cherished gift,” says marketing manager Jennifer MacLennan.

There will also be great products that can be purchased to use for holiday entertaining and decorating. The Murray Room at the front of the Centre will have a café, operated again this year by the Northumberland Regional Boys Basketball Team as a fundraiser for their upcoming season.

The venue will also have a booth set up to enable interested patrons an opportunity to purchase the deCoste Dream Vacation Draw ticket, membership or a deCoste gift card.

“These items make great gifts for that hard to buy for person,” MacLennan said. “What better gift to give someone than an experience they won’t forget — a live show at the deCoste.”

Products offered this year include fused glass ornaments and plates, sea glass and sand jewelry and art, wood crafts and home decor, hand-crafted items including knitted and hand-sewn quilted items and doll clothes, along with a variety of food and alcoholic beverages available from local distilleries.

There is ample free parking at the 99 Water St., Pictou, location or at other locations nearby that are in walking distance.

Entry is through the front main entrance near the box office. Admission is $5 which provides a ballot for a deCoste Christmas prize draw.