As you race about trying to think of the perfect gift for that special someone, forget the ugly Christmas sweater, think about something that can be entered in the Green Barn at the 2026 Chelsea Community Fair, which will take place Aug. 16 to Aug. 23.
The arts and hobbies department offers folks of all ages an opportunity to showcase crafts of all mediums for all levels skills. From construction paper to blown glass to diorama to Legos; gift wrapping, coloring, painting and jewelry, models, woodworking and sandcasting – there’s something for everyone to enter.
Try creating something new while it’s cold and nasty outside and you are warm and cozy inside.
Or maybe baking, cookie or cake decorating, or breadmaking might tickle someone’s fancy. The food preparation and baking department offers everything from pound cake to cheese cake and yes, even fruit cake, categories. Rolled, pressed and no bake cookies are other ideas while there are also candy classes. Buy some Jiffy Mix and try out some new recipes with that. Donuts, cupcakes, coffee cake, you name it – these finished products can be all be entered at fair.
Perhaps buy that special someone a cookbook, not as a hint, but to provide inspiration and pick a recipe you think sounds yummy and include any unusual ingredients as part of the gift.
Winter offers a plethora of interesting scenery for photos that can be entered in the photography department. Bundle up, keep a second battery somewhere warm, and go in search of nature’s frosty subjects.
Does your special someone like to quilt? How about a gift certificate that can be used to purchase supplies or a book about quilting?
Of course, my personal favorite department in the Green Barn is needlework and winter is the perfect time to purchase a kit or a new design. These projects take quite a bit of time to complete – whether you choose to stitch them as a tablecloth, on a sweatshirt or as a framed piece – so Christmas break and the winter months are the perfect time to get going on them.
I will be teaching a small class in cross stitch on Jan. 15 at the Chelsea Community Fair Service Center building and there are a few spots available. If you are interested, please send me an email at [email protected].
