BY TINA L. SCOTT
EDITOR

We’ve already had our first snowfall, and though it melted and we’re experiencing milder temperatures this week, waking up to the world covered in white on Halloween morning was–though seemingly a bit premature for that holiday–a great reminder that the holidays and Christmas are quickly approaching. In fact, as of this publication’s date [Nov. 9], there are 45 days until Christmas Eve. The whirlwind of holiday preparations–crafting, decorating, baking, and shopping–is about to begin, and Merrill’s annual craft fair weekend is set to kick things off.
Officially set for this Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023, area shoppers can work their way around the community to explore craft shows in multiple locations and shop from hundreds of crafters, small businesses and boutiques, and vendors right here in Merrill. This year nine locations will showcase talented artisans with their wares for sale–with two locations beginning their sales on Friday.
Merrill’s City Wide Craft and Vendor Extravaganza, as it has been dubbed, will feature craft shows in churches, schools, pavilions, and businesses throughout the Merrill area. Many locations will also have food for sale so shoppers can grab a bite to eat as they search for unique gifts, holiday decor, crafts, clothing, books, jewelry, baked goods, and much, much more. Hitting the craft show circuit in Merrill this weekend is the perfect way to get into the holiday mood.

Friday craft show locations

• Holiday Market in the Lange Building, 11580 S. Co. Rd. K, – 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Roadside Wreaths & Uniques in the Agra Pavilion, 404 S. Park St. – 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  

Saturday craft show locations

• Former Jefferson School, 1914 W. Jackson St. – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• St. John’s School Gymnasium, 1104 E. 3rd St. – 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• VFW Post 1638, 601 Johnson St. – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Les & Jim’s Lincoln Lanes, 1208 N Center Ave. – 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• New Testament Church, N2519 Co. Rd. K – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• St. Francis Xavier Church & School, 1708 E. 10th St. – 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Merrill High School Fieldhouse, 1201 N Sales St. – 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Holiday Market in the Lange Building, 11580 S. Co. Rd. K, – 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Roadside Wreaths & Uniques in the Agra Pavilion, 404 S. Park St. – 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  

For more information about this weekend’s area craft shows, including a city map, go to the “Merrill Craft & Vendor Events” Facebook page.