Media Release

The Rotary Christmas Arts and Crafts Show

November 8 & 9 2003
at the Stratford Coliseum

'Tis the season to bring the family and your Christmas shopping list to the fifth annual Rotary Arts and Crafts Show at the Stratford Coliseum from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 8 and Sunday, November 9. Now a Stratford tradition, Rotary's pre-Christmas Show provides a great opportunity to shop for special gifts and stocking-stuffers while enjoying a preview of Christmas. Festive decorations, music, a huge Christmas tree, and Santa's presence combine to create a Christmas Wonderland This juried show features handcrafted items, rather than mass- produced products. Marionettes based on Shakespeare's famous characters, exquisite miniature paintings, hand-carved African wooden animals, and novel Christmas decorations are just a few of the unique treasures available at the 100 exhibitors' booths. Thirty-four exhibitors new to the show this year add their creations to a wide range of items that includes jewelry, flowers, winter clothing, stained glass, toys, wood furniture and carvings, make-up, herbal products, kitchen ware, confectionery (fudge and chocolates), and, of course, artwork by renowned artists. Also new for 2003 are candle-making demonstrations, an artist who will paint portraits on site, and two free draws. Prices, from a few dollars to more than $100 for special items, suit every pocket book. While adults shop, children can enjoy creating their own crafts under the supervision of Gallery Stratford personnel in a special Kids' Area. Santa will be there both days from 1-4 p.m. to hear Christmas wish lists and distribute candy. The Food Court will be open, serving light lunch fare (hot dogs and sandwiches) and beverages. Watch for directional signs to the Arts and Crafts Show, located at the northwest end of Britannia Street by Churchill Circle. Lots of free parking is provided at the Coliseum, and Rotary volunteers will be available to carry out large items. Regular admission is $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for students (with card). Children under 12 are free. For a bargain price, look for "dollar off" admission coupons in local newspapers, as well as in stores downtown and at the Mall. In 2002, almost 6000 people came to browse and shop at the Rotary Arts and Crafts Show, raising $15,000 to help Rotary assist the less fortunate in Stratford: the Rotary Respite House and other projects involving education, literacy, and the disabled. (Because the Show is organized and run by Rotary Club of Stratford volunteers, there are no administrative costs.) For more information, contact committee chair Barrie Lees at 273-6413