Shopping on Town Green Benefits Fairfield Kids

Fairfield residents got in some early holiday shopping this weekend at the annual Fairfield Kiwanis Club Craft Show.

The event was held on the Town Green on Saturday and Sunday. Saturday's sunny weather drew a crowd, though some presenters felt the somber overtones of Sept 11 kept some away. "It was a gorgeous day but I heard there were some 9/11 commemorations and I think that kept some people busy and away from the show," said Monica Weber who makes and sells handmade doll clothes. Despite the threat of rain, Weber felt Sunday's attendance was stronger. "We've been getting people in large spurts today," she said.

The Town Green was covered with about 40 tents, all housing handmade items that ranged from jewelry and handknit scarves and ponchos to artwork and paintings. One tent in particular showed off handmade items that would make any little girl (or little girl's mother) smile: Flower headbands, flower barrettes, fairy princess tutu-style skirts, and even flowered flip-flops were among the many items sold in the tent occupied by two sisters and their mother.

One sister crafts the flowers, the other makes the hats and scarves, and the mother makes cloth books; they've been dubbed by a family member as "three crafty ladies." Their items were ideal stocking stuffers, if you can think that far ahead.

A majority of the tents showcased jewelry, which was a popular item at the fair. Many visitors seemed drawn to the tents with everything from handcrafted silver jewelry to beaded items and even pieces crafted from "veggie" ivory. One mother and her daugher made their way from tent to tent and picked up a new scarf for the daughter and a new necklace for mom. Other families and attendees browsed the tents, complimenting the salespeople on the unique and handcrafted items.

Those who didn't want to plunk down the cash for a new painting or purchase a piece of handmade pottery could try their luck at the raffle, which included a variety of items from the craft show.

Of course, no event is complete without something to snack on, and the Kiwanis Club's Craft Show answered the call with items donated by local businesses. Hamburgers, hot dogs, egg and cheese sandwiches were all available, as were tempting sweets at the bake sale.

The Kiwanis Club is a non-profit volunteer organization dedicated to children and children's issues. The Fairfield chapter is part of the global organization and works specifically to better the lives of Fairfield youth. From supporting youth sports and education to providing scholarships to graduating seniors, the Kiwanis club is dedicated to the Fairfield community. For more information about their programs or to join, visit www.fairfieldkiwanis.org