Christmas fair returns to the green on Dec. 6


Marge Webster and Emmie Grimes prepare products for the new "Spice of Life" department, which includes flavored vinegars, oils and seasonings. Reminder Publications submitted photo

By Courtney Llewellyn

Reminder Assistant Editor

LONGMEADOW The Town Green acts as a central point for Longmeadow, and what better place is there to gather the community for the First Church of Christ's annual holiday extravaganza?

"Christmas...On the Green" will be taking place this year on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The First Church of Christ is located at the corner of Williams and Longmeadow Streets.

The event is hailed as an "old time Christmas fair" and everything on display will be made only by church members.

"That's one of the neat things about this," Judy Pyers, church member in charge of publicity of the event, said. "All the work is done internally. There are no outside vendors."

Pyers said it was mostly the elder women of the congregation who "step up to the plate and get it done," making everything from crafts to jewelry to clothing to food.

Also featured this year will be a silent auction, gift baskets, the "Spice of Life Shop," "Gifts from Afar," wreaths, a children's room and more.

"'Gifts From Afar' is like an antique store," Pyers said. "People gather what they've collected on their travels and share it."

Almost everything offered will be "First Church Originals," according to Pyers.

All the proceeds raised from the fair will be donated to local charities.

"The funds will be going to the Council of Churches and food pantries," Pyers stated. "[This event] is truly for the Greater Springfield area. We're trying to reach out to our large community."

Lunch will be served from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and Santa will be visiting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

"Christmas...on the Green" is touted as an event where there is something for everyone, and Pyers agrees.

"It's a great time," she said. "It's a tradition with a modern approach."

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