Last year, members of Our Lady of Lourdes Church decided to resurrect the annual holiday bazaar that had been held years before. "At Our Lady of Lourdes, we have a strong focus on community, and hosting the holiday bazaar is an excellent opportunity to bring together the members of the parish and our neighbors," said organizer Karen Kernc. "The 2023 event was the first in over 15 years and a welcome return after the pandemic."

This year's event will be held at the church, 150 Water St., New Holland, on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will include a number of vendors and food items for purchase, including a variety of baked goods.

Organizers have lined up more than 30 vendors to take part. "I love to see the things that our handmade and homemade makers come up with," said fellow organizer Colleen Rooney. "The creativity that goes into some of these items is amazing." Kernc noted that a variety of craft items will be on display, including woodworking, hand-painted glass ornaments, jewelry, ceramics, custom florals, stained glass, soy candles, incense, soaps, and wreaths. Artwork will include painted canvases and jewelry and canvases made with paint pouring. Crocheted items will include scrubbies, tea towels, pillows, small quilts, table runners, and placemats. One vendor creates a variety of items, from purses to potholders and dog neckerchiefs, from repurposed military wear.

Food items that will be available for purchase at the event will include chicken corn soup sold by the bowl and the quart, hot dogs, chips, soda, coffee, and baked items. Kernc pointed out that baked items featured at the sale will be homemade this year. "Last year, we made them at the church because we didn't realize they could be made at home," she explained, adding that a sign on the baked goods tables will note that the items are homemade.

All funds raised by the sales will be used for capital improvements at the church.

Kernc is looking forward to the event. "In 2024 we hope to repeat (last year's) success and continue to increase our reach to the general public," she said, adding that vendor space may still be available. Those interested in renting a space may call 717-371-2142 or email ololholidaybazaar@gmail.com. More information about the event may be found at http://www.ourladyoflourdesnh.com.