What’s Up, Calais?
Jayna Smith
The Jolly Junction Market opened this past weekend. Vendors selling all sorts of goods are set up in the former Urban Moose building each weekend through Christmas. Organized by CDRC and Downeast Economic Development, this pop-up event is open Friday evenings from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There is so much happening this weekend in Calais in addition to the Jolly Junction Market. On Friday, December 6, the Wabanaki Holiday Market will take place at the Wabanaki Culture Center, located at 39 Union Street. This event runs from 5 to 9 p.m.
The Lioness Christmas Parade is also on Friday night. Starting at 6 p.m., the parade will make its way straight across Main Street before turning left onto Union Street. Don’t forget it’s also the night of Moonlight Madness, so be sure to shop local and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
On Saturday, December 7, the annual Stuff the Bus event will be held at Walmart and Marden’s. Donations of toys, toiletries, hats, boots, jackets, and other items for kids of all ages are both needed and appreciated. Law enforcement officers will be on-site collecting donations from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Your generosity will help make the holidays brighter for many local children.
The annual cookie sale at St. Anne’s Episcopal Church, 29 Church Street, is also set for Saturday, from 8 to 11 a.m., or until the cookies sell out. Be sure to stop by early to grab a pre-boxed assortment of holiday treats.
The Christmas Crafternoon at St. Croix Tap & Table starts at 3 p.m. on Saturday. Heather Bowles will lead participants in creating decoupage ornaments, swags, and wreaths. The $35 fee includes all materials and a snack plate. Limited seats are available, so stop by the restaurant to secure your spot.
Looking ahead, make sure your calendar is marked for the 8th Annual Feztival of Trees, sponsored by the Washington County and Schoodic Shrine Clubs. Always a crowd-pleaser, this event will be held at WCCC on Friday, December 13, and Saturday, December 14, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Sunday, December 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the chance to see the beautifully decorated trees and possibly win one to take home. Admission is just $1.
Now through Christmas, you can make a difference by donating to your local food pantry through Pratt dealership. They are matching up to $10,000 in donations for food pantries across Washington County. Bring a check or cash to the dealership and specify a pantry if you have a preference; otherwise, the funds will be divided among the pantries.
The PTO at Calais Elementary School is still collecting new or gently used items for the school’s Santa Shop, which will run for a week in December, the 16th through 19th. This program allows CES students to purchase gifts for their family members at just 25 cents per item. The school’s student council will assist with gift wrapping, and proceeds benefit the playground fund and student council initiatives. If you’d like to contribute, contact Kristina at 207-671-6982 or email her at [email protected].
Send me your news, your shout-outs for good deeds done, or your well wishes to give, and I’ll be sure to share them here. Until next week, I hope you stay well, stay safe, and be happy.
