On Saturday, November 7, the two floors at Winchester Grange Hall were transformed into the North Pole as the Grange held their annual Holiday Bazaar and Cookie Walk.

After many continuous weekends of rain, Mother Nature cooperated and a crisp fall day set the stage for the successful event. Hundreds of shoppers turned out for the sights, sounds, and smells of the holiday featuring homemade holiday gifts, a soup and sandwich luncheon, and the festive Cookie Walk.

The Holiday Bazaar featured nearly 20 vendors and artisans selling a variety of items such as homemade crafts, jewelry, pottery, and holiday decorations. Winchester Grange also presented a sale table bursting with homemade creations from members, which was placed in the lower hall along side the famous Cookie Walk.

"The atmosphere is so wonderful and festive," said one Bazaar attendee. "It's so much more personal to give hand made gifts. Plus my daughter loves picking out her favorite cookies."

The Cookie Walk was started by Grange member Susan Addison, and the idea took off - now expanding to practically every variety of delicious cookies that can be thought of! The Cookie Walk gave shoppers a chance to fill a coffee can full of cookies for only $3.00.

Todd Gelineau, President of Winchester Grange said that the many people from the community wait in anxious anticipation for the Cookie Walk each year. "It's a big hit in the Center for young and old alike. They mark the date on their calendars months in advance so they don't miss our Holiday Bazaar and especially the Cookie Walk."

One of the highlights of the event is the Soup and Sandwich Luncheon presented by the Grange. Organizers said that the Luncheon which featured a variety of sandwiches, pastries, desserts, and Grange Member Shirley Lemieux's famous Vegetable Pea Soup, sold out quickly.

The Holiday Bazaar is one of the major fundraisers sponsored by Winchester Grange throughout the year. Other events include their Strawberry Festival in June, and the Grange Fair and Flea Market in August.

"This event couldn't have been possible without the support of the many members, friends and volunteers who give of their time and talents. We thank all of you very much." Gelineau said.

Mark your calendars -- The Winchester Grange Holiday Bazaar and Cookie Walk will be kicking off next year's Holiday season in Winchester Center, on November 6, 2010!