The holiday season is just around the corner, making it a great time to get a head start on Christmas shopping while enjoying a day of food, fellowship and community spirit. The Candy Cane Lane Christmas Bazaar will bring together local vendors, homemade treats and tasty meals, offering shoppers a chance to discover unique gifts and support a local church at the same time. The event will be held at Kinderhook Church, 560 Kinderhook Road, Columbia, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7.

"This is a bazaar to raise money for our church," said Cathie Musser, fundraising committee chair. "There will be food available for purchase. There will also be a silent auction of gift baskets and 20 different small business owners selling merchandise for Christmas gifts."

This is the fourth year for the event. With a variety of vendors gathered under one roof, shoppers will have an opportunity to browse for gifts for family members and friends while also finding a few things for themselves. The selection of merchandise will include both items from familiar direct-sales businesses, such as Pampered Chef, Tastefully Simple and Scentsy, along with handcrafted goods made by local artisans. Whether shoppers are looking for something decorative, a useful gift or a little something to tuck into a Christmas stocking, the bazaar will offer a chance to explore different options in one stop.

Both breakfast and lunch will be available for shoppers, and homemade chicken corn noodle soup will be sold to enjoy on-site or to take home.

A bake sale will feature homemade cookies, cakes and more.

Proceeds from Candy Cane Lane will support the operations and mission of Kinderhook Church. The church holds worship services at 10 a.m. on Sundays.

Musser encourages everyone to consider visiting Candy Cane Lane for a day of shopping, fun and fellowship.

"Please come and support Kinderhook Church while starting your Christmas shopping for your friends and loved ones," she said.

Some vendors will accept electronic payments, but shoppers should bring cash for food, baked goods and take-home soup.

For more information, search for "Kinderhook E.C. Church" on Facebook or visit https://kinderhookec.com.